



tKnHltliRHfl 

™8il 

mm 

ill 

nil [i iflu 



MB— 

in 



mm 












AS 




so, 



is" m fe? ; : t 1 % 




ID 

o 

X 

o 
< 



o 

H 

< 
03 



«**, 



# 



* 



HISTORY 



OF 



BAMPTON. 



HISTORY 



OF THE PARISH AND TOWN OF 



BAMPTOM, 



WITH THE DISTRICT AND HAMLETS BELONGING TO IT* 



.- \. 



BY 

THE REV. J. A. GILES, D, C. L., 



I.ATE FELLOW OP C. C. C. OXPOBD, 



OXFORD, 

J. H. PARKER, 

BAMPTON, HOLLOWAYS AND SONS. 

1847. 






\ &QZ\Z 



oz 



PRINTED BY M. A. TANNER, BAMPTOS. 



n 



TO 

FREDERICK WHITAKER ESQUIRE, OF BAMPTON, 

ONE OF HER MAJESTY'S JUSTICES OF THE PEACE 

FOR THE COUNTY OF OXFORD, 

THIS HISTORY OF HIS NATIVE TOWN 

IS DEDICATED 

BY HIS SINCERE FRIEND AND FAITHFUL SERVANT, 

THE AUTHOR, 



, 



HISTOR Y 

of 
B AMP TON. 



The geography of Britain, as of all the modern countries of 
Europe, has undergone at least two, perhaps in some parts 
three changes of nomenclature since the beginning of the Chris- 
tian era. The names of places, which occur in early British 
history, whilst the ancient Britons still enjoyed independence, 
were mostly altered or modified by the Komans. The Italian 
pronunciation still delights to give euphony to the Teutonic and 
Celtic names of the north, by adding vowels and syllabic termi- 
nations to the uncouth consonants of the native idiom.* 

After the departure of the Romans, the country now called 
England, but at that time Britain, was invaded and conquered 



* The British prince, who bravely opposed the invasion of Julius Caesar, is thought to 
have been called Caswallon in his native tongue : but the classic ears of the Roman inva- 
ders softened the term into the more flowing majesty of Cassibellaunus. 

Cunobelin or Cunobelinus was another British prince of note : he is called Cymbeline by 
Shakespeare. 

Many instances of this change of name occur in history. In some cases when the sound 
suits the idioms of both languages, a change of spelling alone takes place. Thus 



xii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

by the Saxons. The first leaders of this tribe of barbarians, 
Hengist and Horsa, landed in the year of our Lord 449, and at 
the end of a hundred and fifty years, daring which there were 
continual wars between them and the Britons, we find that the 
names of most of the towns were changed or in some way 
modified by the new-comers, t 

In the year 1066, William the Conqueror landed at Hastings, 
and in the course of his reign nearly all the baronies and great 
fiefs of the crown changed hands and became the property of 
the Norman lords who accompanied the Duke. TTe can- 
not doubt that many places, of less note or situated in remote 
districts, received new names according to the fancy or caprice 
of their new owners. 

To these causes mav be mainly ascribed the great difficulty, 
which we have in identifying places, as described in ancient 
authors, with towns and villages still existing. 

There is little doubt that the town of Bampton is one of the 
oldest in England. The etymology of the name shows it to 
be of Ancient British origin, unchanged by the tide of Anglo- 
Saxon invasion, which swept away so much of British laws, 
customs and language. The termination -ton, which marks 
so many names of towns all over the island, is spelt in nearly 



Daubigny, afreebooting captain of the fifteenth century, is called D'Obigni by the polite 
Italians, -whose purses he took, from them. 

i In proof of this observation, we have several instances in the Ecclesiastical His- 
tory of Venerable Bede, where two names are given to the same place. Thus in the 
second chapter of the first book, he says, " The blessed Alban suffered death on the 
22nd of June, near the city of Verulam, which is now by the English nation called 
Verlamacestir or Varlingacestiy." 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. Xlll 

all old manuscripts -tune, and was probably at first pronounc- 
ed as the modern Scotch, pronounce it, -toon. A large num- 
ber of English towns end with the syllable -don, and this 
termination also is writtea -dun or -dune in ancient manu- 
scripts. 

It is not to be denied that these terminations -ton and 
-don are also Anglo-Saxon forms,* and pass for such among 
lexicographers : but those who reflect on the numerous 
names of towns, ending in -dunum &c. and existing over 
all Ancient Britain and Gaul, long before the invasion of the 
Saxons, can hardly avoid the inference that the Celtic language 
was the source from which flowed those Saxon names 
of towns ending in -don and -ton, as was before observed. 

If then this theory be correct, — and I think it is hardly 
susceptible c£ a doubt, — it remains to enquire what was the 
primitive signification of these syllables -ton -don, -tune, 
-dune, -dunum, -dinum, &c. from which are derived the 
modern English words -town and -down. Now the theory 
that these words are of British or Celtic origin is much 
strengthened by the fact that the French language, which, like 
the English, derives many words fmm the old Celtic, still 
retains the word dune denoting a height or eminence, 
generally of an open or exposed character, and similar in 



* It is the prevailing opinion, that the Anglo-Saxons entirely exterminated the Britons ; 
but this is surely a mistake. The inhabitants of all the south of Britain, in the time of 
Julius Caesar, were of Belgic, not of Celtic descent, and it is probable that they were a 
kindred race to the Anglo-Saxons. If so, the victorious Anglo-Saxons would not externv 

B 



xiv HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

appearance to that particular kind of country which we call 
a down. If therefore we can discover any connection be- 
tween the idea of a town, as we at present understand 
the word, and that of a down, we shall have no difficulty 
in proving that -ton, -tune, -don, -dune, -down and town 
are different modifications of the same word, and, as far 
as etymology is concerned, denote the same thing. Such a 
connection is not difficult to find, when we reflect that the 
towns of the Ancient Britons were all strongholds, erected 
on downs or heights, according to the description given 
of them by Caesar and other ancient writers. 

These observations wi 11 . lead the reader to perceive from 
etymology that the word Bampton is at all events as old 
as the Anglo-Saxons, and probably of A.ncient British origin.t 

This inference wonld be conclusive, if we could trace the 
first syllable of the word Bampton to an equallv early 
origin, but I am not acquainted with any Celtic or An- 
cient British word from which the syllable bam can have been 



iaate,but amalgamate with the subdued Britons, and their future dialect would show traces 
of the union. The same view of the subject is taken by Sir Francis Palgrave. " It may- 
be remarked, that the influence of conquest was often counteracted and neutralized 
by the affinity of the conquering and the conquered nations. The waves which flowed 
"n the same channel usually proceeded from the same source. Thus, in England, the 
original Belgic population of Lloegria, and their despoilers, and those who subdued the 
vanquished victors were all brethren : Britons and Anglo-Saxons, Danes and Normans 
were all relations, however hostile, they were all kinsmen, shedding kindred blood : and 
even when the races were not so nearly connected,the pervading resemblances of the laws 
of the earlier ages contributed to lighten the yoke of conquest, and to disguise the innova- 
tions which were really effected by the transfer of sovereignty." 

PALGRAVE'S RISE AND PROGRESS OF THB ANGLO-SAXON COMMONWEALTH. 4tO, 

Part I, London, 1832, p. 35. 

t Since writing as above, I have received a letter from the Rev. John Jones, Vicar 



jHISTORY OF BAMPTON. %v 

derived ; its etymology is pure Saxon, and it is written in 
that language beam, which like batjm in German signifies a 
'tree/ though the term has after many centuries been nar- 
rowed in application, until it signifies no longer the living 
tree, but the log or trunk of it after it has been felled and 
hewn, and placed as a main-timber or beam to support the 
roof or ceiling of a house, t 

It would appear, then, from this etymology that the name 
bampton is equivalent to tree-town, and we are at once 



of Nevern, and one of our first Welsh scholars. He refers me to Dr. John Davies's 
Welsh-Latin dictionary printed in London, A, D. 1632, and to Dr. Owen Pughe's English- 
Welsh Dictionary. 

From the former of these works I extract the following meanings : 

"din, idem quod Dinas. 
dinas, civitas, urbs. heb Medinah, Pagn. in ... Dun. Arab. Medinaton." 

From the latter : 

"din, a fortified hill or mount ; a camp ; a fort. It forms the names of a great num- 
ber of places in those countries which were inhabited by the CYMRYor Ancient Britons. 
Hence the -dunum, -dinum or the -dinium, of the Romans ; -tune, -don, -ton, 
and town of the English." 

To these extracts may be added the following from Bosworth's Anglo-Saxon 
dictionary. 

"dune, f. [Plat. Ger. d'jne, f. Dut. duinen, m. pi.. Dan. dynerne, f. pi. Frs. dune f. 
Celt. Bret. tun. f.] a mountain, hill, downs ; mons, — [then follow references to 
passages in the Anglo-Saxon Bible] — IT of dune, adune, down, down-wards. 

tun, es ; m. [Plat, tuun, m. a hedge, garden: Dut. tuin, m. a garden, hedge : Ger. zaun, 
m. a hedge; old Ger. tune, zun : Not. steinzun, a wall; Icel. tun. n. viridarium, pratum 
domesticum; Wei. DiN,DiNAS,a city: Gael. TuiN,f. a dwelling-place: Ir. Gael, dun ,m. a for- 
tress, tower, a fortified hill, a hill, hedge, heap: Ir. TAiM,f. a town — tynan to enclose.] 
1. a place fenced round or enclosed ; septum quodvis. 2. A close, field, yard, farm, local 
possession: praedium, fundus, ager, possess io. 3. A place of residence, house, dwelling, 
village, town, a territory lying within the bounds of a town : habitaculum, domus, vicus, 
villa, oppidum. 4. A class, course, turn ; classis." 

Then follow examples of the use oi the word. 

t The explanation of Beamdune found in Bosworth's Anglo-Saxon dictionary. 
"beam-dune, beam a tree, dune a hill. 

The name of many places in England, so called from their elevated position, covered 
with wood, now corrupted into Bampton." Chr. 814. 



xvi HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

led to conjecture that this appellation was given to it from 
the woody character of the surrounding country. There is, 
indeed, no doubt that the whole tract of country in which 
it is situated, like all swampy places frequently subject to 
inundation, was covered with a large forest, in memory of which 
the name of "Bampton in the Bush," distinguishing the 
town from others, its namesakes, has descended even to our 
own times. 

§ 2. DESCRIPTION OF BAMPTON IN ITS PRESENT STATE. 

Leaving then the etymology of the name as su nciently 
ascertained for ou v present purpose, I shall proceed to 
describe the parish in its present state, with reference 
to its position in the county of Oxford, the nature of its 
soil, and its bearings in regard to other towns and places 
of greater importance in its vicinity. 

A very slight inspection of the map of England will shew 
that the river called successively the Isis and the Thames, 
for a length of about 100 miles, forms a boundary between 
the counties of Oxfordshire and Berkshire. This noble 
stream leaves Glocestershire near the small village of Kelms- 
cott and flowing eastward takes a bend, first towards the 
north and afterwards back to the south so as to enclose a 
large projecting part of Berkshire. It then makes a large 
bend towards the east and again ascending towards the 
north and enclosing in its course all the southern half 
of Oxfordshire, it quits the county at the market town of 
Henley upon Thames. 




T OW N HALL 




tf* 



P*r 



A 



u* 



HIGH STREET 



HISTORY OF BAMPTOX. xvil 

At the south-western corner of Oxfordshire, and lying on 
the north side of the river, is the hundred of Bampton, 
which, besides the market-town and parish of Bampton with 
its various hamlets, contains the large and ancient towns of 
"Witney and Burford, the township of Grafton, the parishes 
of Alvescott, Asthall, Asthall Leigh, Black Bourton other- 
wise called Boreton or Barton Abbat's, Bradwell, Bronghton 
Poggs, Clanfield, Ducklington, Filkins, ILirley, Hardwicke, 
Kelmscott, Kencott, Brize-Norton, Bad cot, Standlake, Upton, 
Signet, Westwell, Yelford, and the cliapelry of Holwell. 
The hundred of Bampton is cut off from the rest of the 
county by the river Windrush or Wainrus, which leaving 
Gloucestershire near Burford, separates the hundred of Bamp- 
ton from that of Wootton, and passing on to Witney bends 
towards the south, and after forming a boundary hue between 
Bampton and Chadlington hundreds, falls into the Isis near 
New Bridge in the parish of Standlake. The parish of Bamp- 
ton is the most southerly in the hundred to which it gives 
a name, and is bounded on the south by the river Isis which 
skirts it for a distance of about 8 miles between the par- 
ishes of Standlake on the east and Clanfield on the west. 
The boundary line, where it quits the river on the east, 
touches successively on the parish of Standlake, Hardwicke 
field, Yelford, Ducklington, Curbiidge a hamlet in the pa- 
rish of Witney, Brizc-Norton, Blackbourton and Clanfield, 
after which it again joins the river on the western side 
of the parish about a mile short of Radcot bridge. 

C 



xviii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

This large parish is distant about 7 miles S. E. by S. 
from Burford 6 S. W. by W. from Witney, and about 
14 miles W. from Oxford in a strait line through the parishes 
of Stanlake and North-moor, across Bablock-hythe ferry, and 
from thence through the grounds of the Earl of Abingdon 
and the village of Cumuor, to Oxford. The communication 
between Bampton and London has always been attended 
with many difficulties, resulting partly from the nature of 
the country, and partly from its not being situated near any 
of the great high-roads which connect London with the pro- 
vinces. Whilst on the south or Berkshire side of the river 
the country rises suddenly into a long chain of hills extending 
for many miles east and west, and leaving little or no in- 
terval between their foot and the water's edge, the country on 
the side of Oxfordshire expands into a large plain, reaching 
from Cumnor in the east to beyond Eairfordin the west, a 
distance of from twenty to thirty miles. In this extent of 
country ; bordering on the north bank of the river Isis, some 
parts of the parish of Bampton are the very lowest, lying, here 
and there, almost as low as the river's bed, so that 

an inundation is a matter of frequent occurrence, and in 
winter many thousand acres are covered with water. The 
length of Bampton parish is about 6 miles from its most 
eastern hamlet Brighthampton to its western boundary on the 
Clanfield road. In this direction the country is perfectly flat 
with hardly the slightest rise or undulation of surface; but 
its width, which extends from Tadpole bridge in the south 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xix 

to Lew, the most northerly hamlet of Bampton parish, is 
about 4 miles, of which the last mile and half is a gradual 
rise towards a line of low hills running from Hardwicke and 
Standlake fields in the East through Yelford, and Lew, where 
it rises to its highest elevation at Lew Barrow, and falls 
away gradually on all sides between the parishes of Brize- 
Norton, Black-Boretou and Kencot. 

In the midst of the flat bounded on the north by the Lew 
hills and on the south by the river Isis, is situated the 
town of Bampton, at about equal distances from the north- 
ern and southern boundaries of the parish, but much nearer 
to its western extremity, being four miles distant from the 
latter and only one mile from the former. 

The parish contains, besides the township of Bampton, the 
hamlets of Weald, Haddon, Lew, Aston, Chimney, Bright - 
hampton, Old Shifford, New Shifford, Cote, and Rushey. 
Of these hamlets, Lew is sufficiently extensive to become 
hereafter a parish by itself. Aston is a still more consider- 
able village, and will, in conjunction with Cote, Brighthampton, 
Chimney, Old and New Shifford, form another separate pa- 
rish, so that Bampton will retain, of all its former depen- 
dences, nothing but the hamlets of Rushey, Haddon and Weald, 
the last of which already joins it so as to shew no apparent 
separation. 

Of these villages, and hamlets, some are of the smallest 
description, being rather localities than places where several 
families reside. Thus Haddon contains only one farm-house and 



xx HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

a few cottages of labourers. Chimney has two farm-houses - 
only, and Rushey, situated on the river at almost the south-west- 
ern corner of the parish, contains only one house, inhabited by 
a single family, who have the charge of a lock established there 
to facilitate the navigation of the river. I may observe that 
the etymology of the name "Rush-eye, or the " Isle of rushes/'' is 
substantiated not only by the nature of the place, but by the 
similar forms, "Sheppey " or the "isle of sheep/' "Thorney" 
or the " isle of thorns, " " Anglesey," or the " isle of the An- 
gles/'' and others, which abound in almost all parts of Eng- 
land. But it is not necessary to go to a distance for examples 
of this ancient Anglo- Saxon mode of forming names of places ; 
for I believe the hamlet of Chimney may possibly derive its 
name in a similar manner, as if written Chimn-eye, though there 
is another etymology of tins name winch will be hereafter men- 
tioned ; and Lake Eeddy lane, which leads from the Buck] and 
road down towards the meadows, seems to retain traces of having 
originally taken its name from "Reed -eye" or the "isle of 
reeds." It has been already observed that the name of 
Bampton signifies the " Tree- town," and to conclude the list 
it may be observed that Aston is written Estune i. e. East- 
town inLeofric's Charter : Shifford is the " sheep-ford," Bright- 
hampton is composed of the three words, beight, ham, and 
town : Haddon is a word formed out of the old termination 
-don, before described, though the meaning of its first syllable 
had- seems more uncertain ; but the etymology of Lew has 
hitherto baffled all my enquiries. 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xxi 

§ 3. OF THE CLIMATE AND SOIL OF BAMPTON PARISH. 

The climate of Bampton is considered to be remarkably salu- 
brious, owing, in a great measure, to the gravelly nature of the 
soil. The water also is excellent, except in situations where it 
is exposed to contamination from decayed vegetable-matter. 
Fish abounds, not only in the river, but in all the brooks ; and 
the fine flavour which they possess, is thought to be a strong 
proof of the healthiness of the air. The soil of the northern 
part of Bampton parish, which lies upon the hill from Yelford 
to Brize-Norton, including the whole of Lew, abounds in clay, 
which renders the cultivation of the land more difficult and its 
profits less ample, but the soil of that portion of the district 
which lies in the plain, is a continued stratum of gravel cover- 
ed by a thin surface of vegetable mould. It is tolerably fertile 
and susceptible of a high degree of cultivation, except where it 
is exposed to the annual inundation from the river. The num- 
ber of acres in the whole parish is about 10000, of which 3000 
are under the plough. The grain mostly cultivated is wheat, 
and the system of agriculture varies according to the taste or 
discretion of the farmers. This latitude of practise has however 
been introduced, only since the Inclosure-Act of 1812 ; for, 
when the principal part of the parish was laid out in common 
fields, it was necessary that a uniform system should be follow- 
ed, to ensure an equal share of benefit to all who had a right of 
common. The course then pursued was the four-year or four- 
crop coarse : according to which they sowed wheat the first 



kxii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

year, beans the second, and barley trie third, after which the 
laud was suffered to lie fallow the fourth year, to recover its 
strength for the ensuing crop of wheat. 

But many other kinds of grain grow with much freedom in all 
parts of the parish. Oats thrive well ; barley is perhaps the 
least productive : peas seem to agree with the nature of the 
soil, and yet they are little cultivated : for they are never plen- 
tiful and generally sold at a high price. All kinds of roots and 
other vegetables are also grown in great abundance : potatoes 
here, as elsewhere, are the standard produce of the kitchen gar- 
den. Jerusalem artichokes are astonishingly productive : I 
have gathered nearly a peck of them from a single root. The 
usual kinds of fruit grown in gardens are found in Bampton. 
Apples grow in all parts of the parish and in the orchard be- 
longing to Cote house, fifteen or twenty hogs-heads of cider are 
made in one season. 

Apricots, walnuts and pears grow with great luxuriance: 
strawberries have been said to be ill-adapted to the soil, but this 
is certainly an error : for there are some gardens where the 
finest specimens of this fruit have been gathered, and in order 
to secure a good crop it seems to be only necessary to well 
moisten the beds in which they grow. 

§ 4. OF THE TOWN OF BAMPTON. 

The town itself of Bampton consists of three principal streets 
which meet on the market-place. Here stands a large town- 
hall, the lower part of which is surrounded by open arches and 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xxiii 

forms a small but commodious market-house. It is to be wish- 
ed that this building could be more serviceable to the inhabi- 
tants in the use for which it was erected ; but the neighbour- 
ing markets of Witney, Faringdon, Burford, and even Oxford at 
the distance of so many miles, are too attractive to the farmers, 
and the market of Bampton which is held on Wednesdays sel- 
dom presents more than a few sellers of eggs, and butter, though 
large numbers of pigs are sold on that day. 

Of the three streets which meet on the market-place, High- 
street seems to be the principal : on reaching the extremity of 
the town towards the South-east, it is separated into two 
branches, one of which leads to Aston, Shifford, Brighthampton, 
&c. the other passing over Fisher's bridge, and two miles fur- 
ther on, over Tadpole bridge, leads to Buckland, Stanford, 
and the Faringdon Eoad Station on the Great Western Rail- 
way. From this station Bampton is more than nine miles dis- 
tant. 

Eeturning to the Town-Hall and taking a northerly direction, 
we find ourselves in Broad Street, so called from its great breadth : 
it is a dull street, lined on both sides with low houses, possess- 
ing little to attract the notice of the traveller. At the end of 
Broad Street, separating the town from the country are the 
grounds and large manor-house of Bampton Deanery, the pro- 
perty and residence of Frederick Whitaker Esquire, J. P. This 
estate is copy-hold held in lease of the Dean and chapter of 
Exeter. 

To the west of Broad-Street are two or three lanes or back- 



xxiv HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

streets leading to the Parish-church and buryii)g-ground ; the 
widest of these is generally called Church Street. The 
third principal thoroughfare is called Mill- Street, from the mill- 
stream over which it runs, and passing through Weald between 
an old house now occupied as a school, sometimes called 
the manor-house of Bampton, and the ruins of the old castle, 
now called Ham-court, divides itself, at Cow-lees corner, into 
two branches, one of which leads to Clanfield, and over Eadcot 
bridge to Faringdon, the other leads through the villages of 
Black-Boreton, Alvescott, Kencott, &c. to Lechlade and Fair- 
ford in Gloucestershire. 

We again return to the town, and proceed to describe the 
principal objects of interest which it contains. The first of these 
is its fine parish-church. 

§ 5. Of the parish-church of bampton. 
The church of Bampton is situated on the north-western 
side of the town, in the centre of a large church-yard, 
which, from being removed out of the immediate thorough- 
fare, and from the number of trees with which it abounds, 
has a rural and interesting appearance. The church-yard is 
skirted on three sides by the street : on the north-side of it, is 
the ancient gate-way leading to the Deaneiy, next to which 
is the principal of the three vicarages, destined hereafter, 
when the portions are separated, to become the residence of 
the vicar of Bampton Proper. Adjoining to the gardens of 
the vicarage, on the eastern side, is a respectable house of 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xxv 

considerable antiquity, and once in the occupation of a family 
named Wood, who, from circumstances hereafter to be men- 
tioned, have acquired a species of historic, or at least romantic^ 
notoriety. The house is now the property of Thomas Den- 
ton, Esq., one of the lords of the manor of Bampton. To it 
succeed two rustic cottages ; and a small side entrance gate- 
way, leading through the grounds of Bampton Deanery manor- 
house, completes the northern side of the square in which the 
parish-church is situated. On the eastern side are two houses 
only, namely a low cottage and a large house which was for- 
merly one of the vicarages, but has lately been sold with the 
consent of the Bishop to raise money for building another vica- 
rage-house hereafter, when the livings are separated, in the pa- 
rish of Aston. On the south-side of the church are some ruins 
and the third vicarage, a roomy and comfortable residence, but 
with no pretensions to beauty of appearance or architectural 
ornament. It will hereafter be the residence of the vicar of 
Lew, until a more convenient situation for a new vicarage shall 
be obtained within the parish, of which he will have the charge. 
The principal approach, leading to the South-porch of the 
Church, near Church Street, is on this side, and the point 
of view, to a spectator standing near the gate of the old Gram- 
mar-school, is picturesque and pleasing. The western side of 
the Church-yard is occupied by the Deanery-house, lawn, and 
paddock, which are separated by a wall from the Church- 
yard. 

The church itself is a handsome cruciform building, 



xxvi r HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

possessing many peculiarities in its architecture and orna- 
ments. 

It is composed of a nave with north and south isles, two 
transepts and a chancel. On the eastern side of the north 
transept is a small chapel, now used as an engine-house : the 
south transept has two chapels, one on each side of it : that 
on the eastern side is generally called Hoard's isle, because it 
is the burial-place of the Hoard family, formerly owners of Cote 
house. The western isle of the south transept is open to the 
nave of the church, and is occupied by pews. The service of 
the church is performed in the nave only : the transepts, from 
the size of the building and the clumsy galleries which sur- 
round the nave and separate it from the rest of the church, 
are at present of no other use than as passages or throughfares 
to the interior. 

Over the junction of the nave with the transepts, stands a 
massive tower rising about 65 feet from the ground : above 
which is placed a stately spire, about 150 feet high, a conspi- 
cuous object to all the surrounding country. At the base of 
the spire, and springing from the corners of the tower, are 
four figures of Apostles, giving to the exterior of the church 
that peculiar appearance which belongs to many of the Ox- 
fordshire churches. The chancel is of ample dimensions and 
contains on each side old oak seats, like those of a cathedral or 
college-chapel; but there is no record of there having been 
a larger body or chapter of clergy than its three vicars; 
and it is believed that the appellation ' Deanery/ which is 



HISTORY OF BAMPrON, xxvii 

applied to the ancient house adjoining to the church-yard, forms 
no ground for supposing that there was ever a Dean of Bamp- 
ton: the name is probably derived from some temporary 
or occasional residence of one of the Deans of Exeter, or 
perhaps from the mere fact of its having been the property of 
those dignitaries. 

The living of Bampton is divided into three portions, held 
by three vicars who are termed " portionists." It has, how- 
ever, rarely happened that three incumbents have been all resi- 
dent at once : for whilst one or other of the portions has been 
held by non-resident vicars, having other preferment elsewhere, 
it has even happened that two of the portions have, at least once, 
been held by the same vicar, nor is it now probable that 
the parish will ever derive benefit from the presence of their 
three spiritual superiors: the reforming spirit of the age 
has directed, through a recent ordinance of the ecclesiastical 
commission, that when a new vicar shall be appointed, the 
three portions shall be separated, and each shall form a dis- 
tinct parish. 

The architecture of the church is of various styles : the 
most ancient part of the building is to be sought for at the in- 
tersection of the chancel and transepts : here is still remaining 
a low semi-circular ornamental arch with mouldings laid upon 
a square style of masonry, such as marks the Saxon and Nor- 
man period. The four pointed arches, on which the tower 
rests, are next in antiquity, and the whole of the tower above 
is certainly earlier than any part of the superstructure of 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 



either the nave, chancel, or transepts. The upper part of the 
tower is occupied by a peal of six fine-toned bells, besides a 
smaller specimen, which gives forth an attenuated sound, far 
inferior to the majestic notes that proceed from its more pon- 
derous neighbours. 

Besides these bells the tower contains a large clock, which, 
when it strikes, is heard to a considerable distance. There are 
also chimes, which play an ancient carol at the hours of one, 
five and nine. The practise of ringing the curfew is also retain- 
ed at Bampton ; at 8 in the evening a bell sends forth its soli- 
tary voice, but no fires or candles are now extinguished at the 
signal, which like the letter of an obsolete law, still appears on 
the pages of the statute-book, though its spirit has depar- 
ted ! At 4 in the morning, also, from Lady-day to Michaelmas, 
the Matins bell is placed on duty : so tenacious are we in 
some respects of the customs of our forefathers ; we ring the 
curfew at evening to warn the country-man to rest, and in 
the morning by the matins-bell summon him from thence 
to his daily labours I 

On the floor immediately beneath the bells is a handsome 
belfry with double-niches on every side worked in the thick- 
ness of the wall. A square trap-door appears in the centre 
of the floor, which was formerly open to the church beneath, 
but has within the last century been boarded up. The floor of 
the belfry rests on a sort of corbel string-course of ornamental 
masonry, which is readily seen from the church below, and 
seems to lead to the inference that an ornamental gallery was 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xxix 

formerly in the place of the present mean and rotten board- 
ing which now forms the cieling of this portion of the 
church. 

The roof of the whole building is of the Gothic or Tudor 
period, consisting of flat timber- work covered with heavy lead. 
The isles are separated from the nave by handsome rows of 
massive pillars, over which are clerestory windows of the 
latest style of Gothic architecture. These were probably 
added in more modern times, when the ancient high pitched 
roof was removed, to replace small circular or quatrefoil win- 
dows, which would certainly be more in harmony with the 
pointed character of all the existing features of the original 
building. 

Amongst the numerous monuments in this church are three 
brasses in the floor of the chancel, on one of which is en- 
graved the effigy of Eobert Holcot, priest, and vicar of this pa- 
rish, who died on the 25th of October 1500. Ant. a Wood 
states, that he believes the learned Dominican, named Eobert 
Holcot, of Northampton, who died in 1349, was not connected 
with Eobert Holcot, of Bampton ; who, he thought, was one of 
the family of that name residing in the neighbourhood, at Buck- 
land in Berkshire. On another brass is an effigy of Plymmys- 
wood, of whom we shall again speak hereafter, in enumerating 
those who have successively been vicars of this church. Nume- 
rous memorials of the Hoard family before mentioned exist in 
various parts of the church, sufficient to afford considerable 
materials for a biography of their highly respectable house. 



xxx HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

On the east side of the north transept within the chapel be- 
fore alluded to, is a beautiful recumbent effigy, apparently of 
the period of king Henry the 4th, but it is unfortunately so 
mutilated, and wantonly disfigured, that it is impossible to ar- 
rive at any satisfactory conclusion as to the personage whom it 
is intended to commemorate. 

Another recumbent eAigy which was intended no doubt to 
repose within the church, is now placed in the church-yard, near- 
ly under the east window : its mutilated state renders it diffi- 
cult to say whether it is the effigy of a man or of a woman. 

On the wall between this chapel and the chancel is a speci- 
men of enriched sculpture, let into the wall ; it represents, with- 
in florid Gothic recesses, Christ and the twelve apostles : the 
carving is however indifferently executed, and the piece is in- 
teresting only as affording an example of the style of the fif- 
teenth century. This and many other of the ornamental parts 
of the church were once richly covered with paint, which, for 
centuries perhaps, has been concealed from view by the all -enve- 
lopping white- wash, by which so many of our old parish church- 
es have been disfigured. 

Tins carving was probably intended originally to be a rere- 
dos to the high-altar, or perhaps it may have been an appen- 
dage to one of the altar-tombs, of \?hich piscinas and other 
vestiges are still to be seen in various parts of the church. 

The arms of the see of Exeter occur in the chancel and other 
parts of the building, and the Norman doorcase leading into 
the south transept, and the Gothic semi-porch and entrance 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xxxi 

at the west end of the nave, are specimens worthy of the 
notice of antiquaries. 

The other monuments, not here specified, are not remark- 
able for originality of design or architectural beauty. As 
a copy of all the epitaphs taken from the tombs both within 
and without the church will be found in another part of 
this volume, it is unnecessary here to repeat in brief what may 
there be seen in all its details. 

I conclude this account of Bampton church with the follow- 
ing remarks of Mr. Skelton, who has devoted several pages, in 
his valuable " Antiquities of Oxfordshire," to a description of 
this parish, its church and other antiquities. 

"The massive tower affords a good specimen of Norman 
achitecture, but the ornamental belfry clearly demonstrates, 
that the architect did not contemplate that this part of the 
tower should be hidden from the spectator, viewing it from the 
floor of the church. It is much to be lamented, that the 
internal architectural beauty of many of our finest towers has 
been destroyed by the mode of bellringing, which renders it 
necessary to have belfries nearer to the bells. 

The great antiquity of the church is clearly attested by 
considerable portions of Norman architecture observable in 
various parts of the structure. These remains are however so 
intermingled with architecture of subsequent ages, that in this 
building alone we have examples of almost every period, from 
the conquest to the reign of King George the Third. From 
the character of the spire, and other parts of this building, it 



xxxii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

appears probable that it was erected about the same time as 
the neighbouring churches of Witney and Burford." 

§ 6. Or THE VICARS AND CHURCH-ESTABLISHMENT OF 
BAMPTON. 

The church of Bampton is open for divine service on 
Sundays at the hours of 11 and 3, and on Wednesdays and 
Fridays at 11. To these have of late been added services 
in the chancel, at 8 in the morning on ordinary days, and at 11 
and 4 on Saints-days. The Sunday services are on the whole 
well attended, but at the weekly service there is but a scanty 
congregation, owing, no doubt, to the laborious daily occupa- 
tions of the inhabitants. 

The duties of the Church are discharged by the three 
vicars or their curates, who formerly, when there were 
only the parish church of Bampton and the chapel-of- 
ease at Shifford, were on duty each during four months 
of the year, but, this arrangement not being agreeable 
to one of the former vicars, it was determined in a court 
of law that the three incumbents should discharge 
the duties of the parish in turn, each every third week. Since 
the erection of two additional churches, at Lew and at 
Alston, the Sunday services have fallen sufficiently heavy 
on all the three vicars alike, or on those who as curates 
perform these duties for them. 

The revenues of the vicars of Bampton are considerable, and 
in consequence of circumstances which have happened from 




V I CA RACE 



*s S , 




WEST VIEW OF BAMPTON CHURCH 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xxxiii 

time to time, arise from various sources. The original source 
of revenue were tithes, which were paid by all the inhabitants 
of the town and the adjoining hamlets. In addition to these, 
a large sum of money is paid yearly to the vicars by the parish 
of Clanfield. Similar payments, but much smaller in amount, 
are made by the parishes of Standlake and Yelford : the 
former of these pays between two and three pounds a year, 
the lartf-r pays twenty pence a year to the vicars of Bampton. 
In return for this payment, certain lands in both those parishes 
are exempt from the payment of tithes to their own clergymen. 

In the year 1812 large tracts of common land were enclosed 
in this parish, and by an arrangement then made, three estates, 
lying in different parts of the parish, were set apart for the 
vicars in lieu of tithes ; so that at present the town 
of Bampton and the hamlets of Weald and Lew are tithe-free. 
In addition to these estates, and the money which comes in 
from Clanfield, Standlake and Yelford, the hamlets of Aston 
and Cote, which for tithe-purposes are assessed together, also 
Brighthampton, Shifford and Chimney, which are separately 
assessed, pay certain sums of money yearly, according to the 
recent act for the commutation of tithes : and from all these 
sources, the three portionists of the living of Bampton enjoy 
a revenue amounting to between fifteen hundred and two thou- 
sand a year. 

The other officers, attached to the church establishment of 
Bampton, are a clerk, sexton, organist, and company of ringers. 
A bedel, also, although properly a civic functionary, is mostly 

E 



xxxiv HISTORY OF HAMPTON. 

seen on duty near the sacred edifice, under whose shadotf 
perhaps, from his advanced years, he already contemplates enjoy- 
ing his last rest. 

The custody of the parish-church of Bampton is in the 
hands of two church- war dens, one of whom is appointed by 
the vestry-meeting, the other by the three vicars. One of the 
gentlemen who now hold this office, has discharged its duties 
with credit and respectability during the long period of 
thirty years. 

The parish-clerk of Bampton is appointed by the vicars ; his 
salary proceeds out of the rents of the Cliurch-lands : the sexton 
is elected by the parishioners in vestry assembled. The former 
receives £10, the latter £5. 19s. a year. 

The organist receives £24 a year, being the interest, at 4 per 
cent, of £600 lent with other monies, to the Stoken-church 
Turnpike-Trust : besides £5. the interest of £100 bequeathed 
by Miss Carr. 

The office of Organist is at present filled by Miss AYhitaker, 
a lady possessing zeal and ability in the duties winch she 
condescends to undertake, and a member of that highly re- 
spectable family resident at Bampton, whose urbanity gives 
such attractions to the place in the eyes of all those who visit it, 
and especially of him who has this opportunity of acknow- 
ledging their friendship. 

§. Order and succession of the vicars of Bamptox. 
To form a complete list of the vicars of Bampton from the 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xxxv 

time of Leofric, is a task which the absence of early records ren- 
ders totally impossible. j^It is difficult to say what circumstance 
first led to the threefold division of the vicarage, and I believe 
the instances of a similar arrangement are extremely few. The 
institution-books of the diocese of Oxford, and probably of 
most dioceses, extend back only to A. D. 1543, and there are 
few notices of vicars of Bampton before that period. The ma- 
terials, from which I have formed this list of vicars are princi- 
pally the following. 

1. The institution-books, preserved in the Begistrar's office 
at Oxford. 

2. Tomb-stones and monuments still existing in the church. 

3. Word's Athenge Oxonienses. 

4. "Walker's Sufferings of the clergy, fol. London 1714 — a 
curious work, the second part of which contains a list of some 
of the loyal and episcopal clergy, as likewise of the heads of 
Houses, fellows, scholars, &c. in the two Universities, who 
were sequestrated, &c. in the late times of the great re- 
bellion, 

5. A 4to paper vol. preserved in the Bodleian among Brown 
Willis's MSS, entitled Miscellanea of abbats &e. Taxatio 1291 
com. Oxon. * 

6. Steele's collections for the county of Oxford, No. 46 
among Gough's MSS in the Bodleian Library. 

7. Grandison's and Stafford's Begisters, in the Cathedral 
Library at Exeter. 

A. D. 1337, April 8, Eobert de Bukyngham, reetor of Blis- 
ton in the diocese of Exeter exchanged with Eobert Poddyng 
vicar of Bampton. [Eegister of Grandison, Bishop of Exeter, 
vol. III]. 

* I copy the following extract concerning Bampton, but leave the expounding of it to 
wiser heads than my own. 

" Archidiaconatus Oxon. Decanatus de Witteney. ■ Ecclesia de Bampton, deducta 
portione [LXX Kn.] XX marc. Portio Rectoris de Bampton in eadem V 

Marc. [Kn]." 



xxxvi HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

A. D. 1401, Oct. 28, Thomas Plymmeswode, vicar of Hea- 
vitree, was allowed to exchange with John \Yydelond vicar of 
Bampton [Bp. Stafford's Register, vol. II, fol. 55.] See Plym- 
rnyswode's epitaph on a brass in the chancel. 

A. D. 14 . . Sep. 23, died Thomas Kavi, A. M. vicar of 
Bampton [Eawlinson MS, quoting from a brass now de- 
stroyed. 

A. D. 1500, Bobert Holcot vicar of Bampton died this year, 

on Oct. 25, as appears by his epitaph on a brass in the chancel. 

A. D. 1534, John Dotyn, B. M. vicar of Bampton. [Wood, 
v. I, p. 686.] 

In the Eawlinson MS. I find this notice : " In that vicarage- 
house, which belonged to Mr. Thomas Cooke, (since to Dr. Phil- 
lips, who married his daughter and hen) I find somewhere this 
written an. 1456 jofanxes dotyn yicabxus." Either this 
date is wrong, and should be 1556, or there was a previous 
John Dotyn vicar of Bampton. 

A. D. 1547, April 22. Edmund Crispin, was instituted to 
one of the vicarages of Bampton, vacant by the death of John 
Dyer the last incumbent. 

As a specimen of the form of institution, I give the follow- 
ing extract from the 1st Institution-book of the Diocese of 
Oxford, page 123. 

Yicesimo tertio die mensis Aprilis, anno Do- 

YICABIA mini 1547, magister Edmundus Cry spin cle- 

DE ricus, ad vicariam perpetuam ecclesiee paro- 

BAMPTON. chialis de Bampton Oxoniensis diocesis per 

mortem naturalem Magistri Johannis Dyer 

ultimi incumbentis ibidem vacantem ad preesentationom decani 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xxxvii 

et capituli ecclesiae cathedralis beati Petri Exoniensis patrono- 
rum ejusdem ad missus fuit, ac vicarius in eadem legitime insti- 
tutus, et recepta ejus legitima obedientia scriptum erat domino 
archidiacono Oxon. pro inductione ejusdem. 

A. D. 1548, March 7. John Dayle, by the resignation of Ed- 
mund Crispin, M. A. 

In the entry at page 130 of the 2nd Institution-book the 
dean and Chapter of Exeter are called veri et inchbitati dicta 
vicariai joatroni the true and undoubted patrons of the said 
church. 

A. D. 1549, Jan. 31. Thomas Yonge, B. C. L. by the resig- 
nation of Robert Alliugton. 

A. D. 1558, Eeb. 28. Henry Dotynge by the resignation of 
John Dotynge. 

Rawlinson MS. "Carved on the screen in Mr. Cooke's 
Hall, — 1577, hen. dotyn vicarius. He was M. A., some 
time fellow of Exeter College, and perhaps nephew to the for- 
mer. Ascending into a chamber, was cut in stone, in 1664, 
this, as well as the above-mentioned, — hen. dotyn, vicarius 
1577. 

On a garden- wall, in cap. [i. e. in capital letters] 1569 vi- 
cari, Henricus Dotyn successor Jo. Dotyn patrui sui htjnc 

MURUM SUIS UPTA [should be SUO SUMPTU] PERFECIT." 

A. D. 1561, Sept. 5. William Leveson, by the death of Wal- 
ter Wright, D. C. L. The entry in the Institution-book (p. 211 .) 
is as follows : 

Willelmus Leveson clericus ad vie. perp. eccl. par. de Bamp- 
ton Oxon. dioc. per mortem naturalem Walteri Wright legum 

E 



xxxvifi HISTORY OF BAMPTOSL 

doctoris, et incumb. ibid, jam Yacantem, ad collationem rever* 
endissimi patris Matthsei Cantuariensis arcliiep. Londini admis- 
sus et institutus die quinto mensis Septembris A, D. 1561 et 

regni Elizabethan nunc reginse quarto die Sabbati, 

videlicet 19 die ejusdem mensis, anno Domini prsedicto, virtute 
mandati dicti Reverendissrmi patris in dicta ecclesia parochiali 
de Bampton cum suis juribus et pertinentiis et in ult. inductus 
fuit anno Eeginse Elizabethan prandicto. 

A. D. 1569, Feb. 24 [secundum com/putationem ecclesia 
Anglicance.~] Thomas Pi slier, by the death of Thomas 
Yonge, 

In the Institution-book [p» 249] the dean and chapter are 
again styled the veros et indubitatos (ut asserunt,) &c. 

A. D. 1580 [about] John Howsen Vic. of Bam. about 1580 
—John Howsen, D. D. vie. of Brightwell, about 1610 : consec. 
Bishop of Oxford 1618. [Steele, and Wood, v. I. p. 481.] — - 
A. D. 1601, Aug. 10, [Extract from the parish Register of 
Black-Boreton] ." Mr. John Howsen, one of the vicars of Bamp- 
ton and Elizabeth Eloyd of the same parish, were married in 
this parish church the tenth day of August 1601 by Mr. John 
King Archdeacon of Nottingham/' 

A. D. 1581. John Underhill, B. D. also vicar of Witney 
and consec. Bp. of Ox, Dec. 8, 1589. [Steele, and Wood, 
I, 609.] 

A. D. 1614, July 17. John Prideaux, D. D. by death of 
Henry Walmesley. 

A. D. 1617, July 9. Antony Blincowe, Legum Doctor, by 
the death of Mr. Wormeseve, 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xxxlx 

A. D. 1620. " Edw. Wilson, B. D. about 1620. Balliofergus, 
p. 125/' [Gtough MSS, No. 46.] 

In Eymer's Eoedera, Yol. VIII, pt. 3, page 34, is a dispensa- 
tion, dated Sep. 20, 1628 empowering " Edwardus Wilson, 
8. T. B.," to hold the vicarage of Bampton together with the 
rectory of Stonefield. 

A. D. 1634, July 5. William Hodges, M. A., by the resig- 
nation of John Prideaux. 

W. Hodges compounds for first fruits in the 10 th year of 
Charles I, 1634. [B. Willis]. 

William Hodges was of Exeter College and in 1661 became 
D. D. on May 30, 1645 was admitted to the dignity of Archdea- 
con of Northampton by Dr. Prideaux, Bishop of that see, whose 
daughter he had married some time before. There seems to be 
some ground for believing that he lost the vicarage of Bampton 
on the ordinance concerning pluralities. He was also rector of 
Eipple in Worcestershire and kept that living during the whole 
period of the commonwealth. He died in 1676 — [Walker in 
his account of the Worcestershire clergy] . 

Steele, quoting from Wood, II, p. 824, and Kennet's Eegist. 
and Chron. says W. Hodges died Aug. 1675 and was buried in 
the church of Bampton. 

A. D. 1648, John Osborne, first portion — Eous Clopton, third 
portion, compound for first-fruits this year. [B. Willis]. 

Eous Clopton about 1640 [Walker, Pt. II, p. 224]. 

John Osborne M. A, about 1642, ejected 1662. [Wood, II, 
p, 233.] 



xl HISTORY OF BAMFTON. 

A. D. 1658, Rob. Sawer, 3td portion, and Samuel Birch, 2nd 
portion, compound for first fruits [B. Willis] . 

Of the second of these gentleman I find the following notice 

in the Xonconformist's memorial by Dr. Calamy, edit. Palmer. 

1775. vol. II, p. 302, 

"The Bar. Samuel Birch, M. A., of Corpus Christi Coll. 
Oxon, one of the 3 vicars of Bampton, was silenced by the act 
of uniformity in 1662, although he had formerly not only (to 
use his own words) utterly refused all compliance with the wick- 
edness of the army under Cromwell, (opposing their most un- 
righteous and horrid practices) about King and parliament, but 
had given what assistance he could to the King, when he came 
to Scotland. He \?as ejected Aug. 24, 1662, [B. Willis's 
MS. says July 30] having 7 children. He first removed to 
Shilton, but was there much molested. In 1666 he was placed 
by the gentlemen of the country in a mansionhouse at Coate 

in that neighbourhood belonging to Hoard Esq. and they 

sent their sons to bim for education, a service for which he was 
peculiarly qualified, and he remained there till the time of his 
death, having his house continually full of young nobility and 
gentry from many parts of the nation. Fourteen of those that 
had been his scholars, were in one session of parliament, in the 
reign of Queen Anne; and some of the chief of her ministers of 
state were of that number. He died Jan. 22, 1668, and was 
buried at Shilton." 

A. D. 1660, Thomas Cook, B. D. ob. Apr. 6, 1669. He was 
also archdeacon of Salop. [Steele; and Wood, I, p. 813]. 

A. D. 1662, Dec. 23. Joseph Maynard. 

A. D. 1669, Xov. 15, William Burley, M. A., by the resig- 
nation of Dr. Edward Cotton. 

A. D. 1669, Stephen Phillips, M. A. afterwards D. D., by the 
death of Tho. Cook. S. Phillips was also archdeacon of Salop, 
and died 1681 [Steele; and Wood, II, p. 878.] 

Dr. Stephen Phillips vicar of Bampton and archdeacoo. of 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xli 

Salop, is less known to fame than his son John, the poet, who 
was born here in 1676. This young man received his gram- 
matical education in "Westminster School, from whence he was 
elected to Christ's Church, Oxford. He was designed for the 
study of physic, to which he was naturally led by his love of 
botany, and the weakness of his constitution ; for he seldom 
knew what it was to enjoy a day's health. He was so ex- 
tremely fond of the Greek and Latin Classics, that he entered 
into their spirit and way of writing in a manner superior to all 
who had gone before him. The natural sweetness of his tem- 
per and the easy affability, wherewith he treated every person, 
endeared him to all the gentlemen in the college. 

Dr. Aldrich, at that time dean of Christ's Church, was much 
addicted to smoking tobacco ; and one morning, Mr. Phillips 
and Mr. Smith his chum, laid a wager, that, if one of them 
would go at that moment and call upon the dean, he 
would find him smoking. Mr. Phillips was the person who 
took the affirmative side of the question, and, when he came to 
the dean's apartment, the doctor asked him his business ? To 
whom he answered in that simple manner, to which he was ac- 
customed from his infancy, telling the nature of the wa^er. 
and that he was come there to have it decided. " Mr. Pliilips'' 
said the dean, with the greatest good-nature, " you have lost 
your wager, for I am not smoking, but filling my pipe." 

His poem, entitled " the Splendid Shilling " raised his fame 
to such a degree, that lord Harcourt employed him to write a 
poem on the battle of Blenheim, in opposition to that composed 
by Mr. Addison, on the same subject. This poem was held in 
much estimation, but his best poem is always considered to be 
that which he composed on Cyder, and is an excellent imitation 
of the style of Virgil's Georgics. 

Phillips intended to write a poem on the Last Judgement, as 
we are told by Mr. Smith. His continued ill state of health at 
last brought on a consumption, which put a period to his life 
at Hereford, on the 15th of February 1708, in the 32nd year 
of his age. He was buried in the cathedral of that city, but a 
monument has been since erected to his memory in Westmins- 
ter abbey. * 



* New British Traveller, published under the inspection of Geo. Aug. Walpole esq. fol. 
London, 1784. 



xlii HISTORY OF BAMPTtiN. 

A. D. ] 676, Jan. 5. Thomas Snell, S. T. B. by the death of 
Thomas Hodges. 

A. D. 1684, Jan. 16 [stylo Anglico.] Thomas Snell, by the 
death of Stephen Phillips, S. T. P. 

A. D. 1707, March 2. John Edmonds, M. A. by the resig- 
nation of Arthur Bury, S. T. P. 

A. D. 1714, Feb. 11. Thomas Snell, by the resignation of 
Thomas Snell senior. 

A. D. 1718. April 17. William Stephens, M. A., by the 
death of Thomas Snell senior. 

A. D, 1724, Aug. 18. John Edmonds, M. A. per cessionem 
Will. Stephens. 

Steele has « John Edmonds 1725. William Stevens 1728. 
Snell 17 81/' which is quite at variance with the Institution- 
book. Steele has William Reynolds M. A. 1742." 

A. D. 1743, Aug. 7. William Eeynolds, M. A. to the por- 
tion formerly in the possession of Stephen Phillips, but lately 
of Thomas Snell, vacant by the death of John Edmonds. 

A. D. 1750, Feb. 28. Elias Taunton, M. A. to the portion 
formerly in possession of Stephen Phillips, void by the death of 
William Eeynolds. 

A. D. 1750, March 2: John Land, M. A. by the death of 
William Eeynolds. 

A. D. 1757, July 23. Joseph Amphlett, D. C. L. by the 
death of John Land. 

A. D. 1758, March 25. Charles Hawtrey the younger, 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xliii 

M. A. formerly in possession of Thomas Hodges, vacant by 

the death of Thomas Snell. 

A. D. 1766, May 7. Henry Burton, D. D. to the portion 

formerly in possession of Stephen Phillips and vacant by the death 

of Elias Taunton. 

A. D. 1794, Dec. 23. The Eev.... Marshall vicar ofBampton, 

as appears by the last feoffment deed of the Shilton estate. 

[See account of the Shilton charity lands, hereafter.] 
A. D. 1819, Hugh Owen M. A. void by the cession of 

Hugh Owen the last vicar. 

A. D. 1824, Oct. 25. Cranley Lancelot Kerby by the cession 
of George Eichards. 

A. D. 1828, Feb. 16. John Eobinson Winstanley, by the 
death of Hugh Owen. 

A. D. 1837, May 6. Dacres Adams, by the death of Thomas 
Burrow. 

A. D. 1844, June 21, Ealph Barnes M. A. by the death of 

John Eobinson Winstanley. 

This list contains all the names of vicars, that T have been 
able to collect, and is, I fear, \ery inaccurate in many particu- 
lars, from the numerous palpable errois with which the Oxford 
Institution books abound. 

§ 8. PARISH-REGISTERS NO LONGER IN USE, KEPT IN THE SMALL 
IRON CHEST. 

The registers of the parish of Bampton which are no longer 
in use are contained in a small iron-chest, deposited in the 



xliv HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

vestry-room of the parish Church. They consist of 12 volumes 
in folio and 2 in quarto. These last, together with one of the 
folios, contain the entries of baptisms, weddings, and burials 
pertaining to the church of Shifford, and have been kept of 
late years, with the rest of the Begisters, in the mother-church 
of Bampton. The whole series are ticketed with labels, num- 
bered from 1 to 14, for the convenience of reference. "We will 
briefly describe them in order. 

No. 1. A folio volume, of parchment, and in rather a dila- 
pidated condition. Each page is divided in double columns, 
and the ink is much faded, from age, in several parts of the 
volume, particularly at the beginning. The first entries refer 
to Christenings, and extend from October, A. D. 1538 to 
August 1693. These are partly in Latin and partly in English, 
thus, 

" 1669, Oct, 9, Mary Kickets, fia [filia] Daniel. 

Oct. 28, Anthony et Thomas Wenman, filii Anthony. 

then two leaves of "burrials," from A. D. 1692 to 1691, but not 

in order : after which are 5 leaves of " Marriages " from Oct, 

k. D. 1538, to Dec. 24, A. D. 1691. Then occur several 

leaves of burials and Christenings from 1685 to 1691, entered 

confusedly ; at the end of which is the following sentence : 

Homo quilibet est pars communitatis. Every particular 
person is part of the whole state : this is the true reason, why 
the king takes so precise an account of the death even of the 
basest subject, because himselfe and the whole kingdome had 
interest in him. 

As the hand- writing, in which this morsel of political wisdom 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xlv 

has been handed down to posterity, is of a more recent date than 
the latest of the entries contained in the volume, it must have 
been written since James the Second was expelled by his son- 
in-law William the Third. 

The rest of the volume is occupied with "Burialls," from 
Oct. A. D. 1538, to May 17, 1685, in which the Latin words 
' vidua/ ' Alius/ and ' filia/ occur frequently, as before. 

On the last page of the book is the following curious 
note: 

"Whereas the Eight WorpU : Sr: Thomas Hord Kglit. 
and his worthy lady, hauing upon vndeniable evidence, made it 
apeare that they are not in bodily health, and therefore Accord- 
ing to the lawe in that case provided have obtained a Licence 
to eat flesh during the time of their Indisposition of bodies ; 
But since the Date of Eight dayes allowed by the statute is ex- 
pired, aud they are still in a Sickly Condition. Vpon their re- 
quest the sayd licence is longer indulged them to dress Flesh 
and accordingly Registered. 

March 18th: 1660. Will. Standard. 

The date of Gualter Castles licence, Clark and Sexton being 
expired, was also prorogued. " 

But the good knight seems not long to have enjoyed the in- 
dulgence winch the Church allowed him, for in the list of buri- 
als for the year 1662, we find the following entry : " Jan. 31. 
Sir Thomas Hord," about one year and nine months after the 
date of the licence above-mentioned ! 

No. 2. a folio, also of parchment, and written for the most 

part in double columns. On the first leaf is the following 

note : 

"Dec. 3, 1750. By appointment of ye Revd. Mr. Wm. Rey- 
nolds and ye Revd. Mr. Tko : Snell, Edward Skinner was con- 

G 



xlvi HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

stituted Clerk of the parish of Bampton in ye room of Wm. 
Andrews deceased." 

The first part of the book contains Christenings from Jan. 3, 
A. D. 1685toFeb.24,A. D. 1762, in 30 folios. Then follow Mar- 
riages from April 26, A. D. 1685 toOct. 8, 1753, (occupying fo- 
lios 1—7) —Baptisms from March 3, A. D. 1762, to Feb. 21, 
A. D. 1779, (folios 8 to 18) — Burials from Jan. 6, A. D. 
1685, to July 15, 1780 (fol. 1 to 31). On the last leaf is 
the following note : 

" August 19, 1767. John Wright of Aston having been 
duly elected to succeed Thomas Fox lately deceased, as Parish 
Clerk, was approved of by us. J. Amphlett. Vicar. C. Haw- 
trey. Vicar. 

Wm. Cecil, Church war den/' 

In this register— about the middle of the volume, — the name 
of the officiating Clergyman begins to be annexed to the en- 
tries. The first occurs in the Burials, "1758, Oct. 13. Wm. 
Wiggins. C. H. [for Charles Hawtrey]." The other names 
that occur are J. Amphlett (1759), C. Poyntz, CI. 
(1759). 

No. 3. A folio volume, of vellum, written across the whole 
page and begun at both ends. At the beginning are Burials 
from May 18, 1782, to Dec. 24, 1812. 

At the end are Baptisms from 1779 to 1812. 

No. 4. Folio of paper in two parts, the first of which con- 
tains, throughout, printed forms for the entry of marriages, and 
is entitled A Register-book for marriages &c. printed for 
Joseph Fox, &c. M. DCC. LIV. The entries extend from 
1754 to 1783. 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xlvii 

Between the first and second parts are several entries of 
"Bannesof marriage/' wholly in Manuscript, from 1790 to 
1795. 

Part 2 is entitled " A Register-Book for the publication 
of Bannes of Marriage &c. MDCCL1V," and contains entries 
from 1754 to 1789. 

No 5. folio — paper — wholly in manuscript— vnot in columns 
— each leaf has six three-penny stamps impressed on the outer 
margin, and each entry is made opposite to one of the stamps. 
The volume contains Baptisms from Oct. 5. 1783 to Nov. 19, 
1786 — Burials from Oct. 17, 1783 (at page 39) to Dec. 22, 
1786— and Marriages from Oct. 6, 1783 to Nov. 16, 1786. 

No 6. — fulio — paper — stamped as No 5, contains : 

Baptisms from Dec. 27, 1786, to May 29, 1791— Burials 
from Jan. 13, 1787, to Dec. 20, 1791 — and Marriages from 
Jan. 31, 1787 to Oct. 16, 1791— These entries are much con- 
fused, as several instances occur of Baptisms and Burials being 
entered in the same page. 

No 7. a paper pamphlet containing Burials from July 26, 
1791 to July 23, 1795. 

At the beginning of the book is the following note : " This 
register for burials bought by J. Shingleton, Oct 8, 1791, price 
£1. 4. 0." and yet tlie volume contains only four leaves, each 
of which has 20 three-penny stamps impressed upon it ! - 

No 8. paper — folio " Register of baptisms," printed forms 
throughout— extending from Jan. 13, 1813 to Dec. 12, 1837. 
At the beginning of the volume is the Marriage Act, Lllnd 



xlviii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

of George III, chap, cxlvi, and on the first leaf of the 
book is the following note in MS. 

"Memorandum — The origin of the name of mount-pwen 
was as follows : Some persons were passing by, when the 
cottage at the top of the Hill was in building; among whom 
was an eccentric old shoemaker named John Neal, and he 
was asked to give it a title. He said it must be called 
Mount Owen, the Eev. Hugh Owen being vicar of one of 
the portions of Bampton at that time." 

No. 9. "The Register-book for births, Christenings, &c. 
conformable to an Act of the 23rd of Geo : III, &c — stamped 
on the edges, as before, contains — Baptisms from June 
19, 1791 to Aug. 7, 1795, — then — Marriages from Dec. 5, 
179 L to Nov. 19, 1810.— In the beginning of the book 
is the note: "This book bought by J. Shingleton, June 12, 
1791. price £5. 0. 0." 

No. 10. Register-book for Marriages kc. contains entries 
from Jan. 14, 1811 to Dec. 14, 1812, which occupy only 
four or five leaves, the rest of the volume being blank 
forms. 

No. 11. "Register of marriages &c" from Jan. 18, 1813 
to June 20, 1837. The last half of the volume is blank. 

No. 12. "Register of Marriages in the Chapelry of Shifford 
&c. from April 22, 1813, to Oct. 27, 1835; occupying only 
seven or eight leaves : the rest of the volume is blank. 

No. 13. A quarto volume, of parchment, containing at the 

beginning Baptisms in Shifford church from Oct. 23, 1783 to 
Dec. 27, 1812. At the end of the volume are Burials from 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xlix 

Oct. 23, 1783, to Dec. 23, 1811, with the following note an- 
nexed. 

"Jan. 1, 1811. The register of the burials having been 
irregularly kept during the operation of the tax on bonds, and 
many of the names having been obliterated by the damp, as 
many as were legible, were collected together, and entered into 
this book. We, whose names are undersigned, have carefully 
collated the above list with the old book, and found it a faithful 
copy. G. Richards, vicar, Edw. Lindsey, John Townsend, 
Thomas Bartlett." 

The greater part of the volume is blank. 

No. 14. A paper volume in quarto, containing, at the begin- 
ning, Baptisms, Burials, and Marriages from 1783 to 1787, mix- 
ed together in great confusion : in the latter part of the volume, 
beginning at the end, and with the book inverted, are banns 
of marriage from 1785 to 181 L. 

The registers, which belong to a later period than the forego- 
ing, are kept by the clerk with the cushions and other furniture 
of the church in a large deal chest. 

§ 9. Of the yestry-books. 

The Yestry-books of the parish, which are no longer in use, 
are kept in the large iron chest, together with deeds concerning 
the public charities and other matters, of which we shall speak 
more fully hereafter. The last vestry-book, still in use, is 
kept in the deal chest with the registers and church - 
cushions. 

The following account of these books and extract from their 



1 HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

contents may perhaps be amusing to some of my readers who 
take interest in parochial matters. 

No. 1. contains minutes of select vestries from Jan. 28, 1822, 
to Feb. 27, 1828, concerning paupers, loans made to ditto, 
and promise to repay frc. 

2. Accounts of paupers. 

3. Overseers' book of Bampton and TTeald, bought 
Ap. 29, 1718, contains entries from May 11, 1718, to 
1734. 

On the back of the first leaf is the following memo- 
randum : 

April 3rd, 1719. It was agreed by us with John Carter that 
in consideration of clearing the church from sparrows and 
pigeons, he shall receive from the churchwarden ten shillings 
at present, and five shillings hereafter yearly, to be paid on 
Easter Tuesday : Provided that, if at any time hereafter there 
be just complaint of his neglect to destroy them, he shall be 
content to receive nothing of this yearly stipend. 

Tho. Snell, Will. Stephens Ticars — 
Jo. Sandelands, Ealph Fowler, Tho. Hamersley, John Carter. 

4. Accounts of the charity-lands from 1786 to 1821. 
On the first leaf is the following : 

The Charity Lands lett for three vears, entered on Ladv-dav 
1787. 

The Moor-close and Lake Eeddv close to Air. Shinffleton 
at £12 per ann. 

The close (lately occupied per Mr. Hawtrey) to B. Green 
at £10. 

The upper close to E. Clarke at £ 9 10 0. 

The estate to Appleton at £ 20. 

The three years expired Ap. 5th, 1790, goes on at the Old 
Eent. April 29th 1790. 

At the end of the book (inverted) is the following : 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON li 

"1802, July 23. At a meeting of the Trustees of the Charity- 
lands, holden in the vestry -room of the Parish of Bampton, it 
was resolved ; 

1. That Mr. Shingleton shall be appointed to receive the rent 
of the Charities. 

2. That Mr. Whitaker and Mr. Shingleton be requested to 
let the Shilton estate upon the best terms, according to their 
discretion. 

3. That this meeting be adjourned to Wednesday the 13th 
of October next. - " — G. Eichards Yi3ar, T. Burrow vicar, 
Edw. Whitaker, Joseph Andrews, Joseph Walker, B. Green, 
John Pludyer Salisbury, Joseph Shingleton. 

1802, Oct. 13. At a meeting of the Trustees of the Charity- 
lands holden in the Yestry-room of the parish of Bampton, 
present the Eev. Mr. Eichards, the Eev. Mr. Burrow, Mr. An- 
drews senior, Mr. Salisbury, Joseph Shingleton, it was resol- 
ved that Joseph Shingleton should apply immediately to the 
present tenants to pay their rents with no abatement, and 
in case of non-payment, should put it into the hands of Mr. 
Macey. 

That this meeting be adjourned to Wednesday the 10 of 
Nov. next. G. Eichards vicar, T. Burrow, ricar. J. Andrews, 
senior, John Pludyer Salisbury.'" 

5. Overseers' accounts from 1797 to 1806. 

6. Do. from 1769 to 1796. 

7. Do. from 1734 to 1744. In tins book Yelford appears as 
part of the parish liable to assessment of poor-rates. 

8. Do. from 1733 to 1792. 

Jan. 27, ] 7 33. At a vestry this day held, and application 
being made to the said vestry by John Eeynolds, of Hagbourn 
in the county of Berks, blacksmith, for payment of the sum of 
thirty-four pounds, due to him for making a new clock and 
chimes in the parish church of Bampton, he having performed 
his said work according to his agreement, and to the satisfac- 
tion of this vestry, therefore it is ordered by this vestry, that 
the church-wardens of this parish for the time being do forth- 
with pay unto the said John Eeynolds the said sum of £ 34, 
according to agreement of this vestry for that purpose, except 



lii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

40 shillings, which is to be left as a caution till the clock is 

further proved. John Dewe Richard Coxeter Richard 

Malan Ra. Fowler Richard Sandelands John John- 
son John Pawling -Richard Hoskins William 

Pry or. 

Oct. 3 ; 1741. At a vestry this day here held it was una- 
nimously agreed to allow the following sums to the ringers 
for ringing on the following days : viz : on the king's birth- 
day 10 shillings, on the coronation-day 10 shillings, on gun- 
powder treason 15 shillings, ou the 29th day of May 10 
shillings, and it was farther ordered that the church-wardens 
should give the said money to the ringers to dispose of as 

they shall think proper. And there were present J. Dewe 

J. Nabbs W.Lissett Hen. Church Ric. Fow- 
ler Rich. Malan D. Watts E. Seary J.Pawlin 

E. Aweberry Sam. John&on Jos. Hoskins Fra. 

Sims. 

Sept. the 29th, 1742. By virtue of a faculty empower- 
ing the ministers and church-wardens, bearing date 1725, to 
dispose of the front-seats in the gallery in the north isle, be 
it observed, that the right honorable Lord Coventry hath given 
10 shillings to the churchwardens for the use of the parish, 
for a third seat from Mr. Coxeter' s gallery in the front 
above mentioned. Witness hereto Tho. Snell. vicar — David 
Carpenter, churchwarden. 

Agreeable to the circumstances above, Thomas Jeeves, of 
Aston, purchased of the churchwarden of the same, one seat 
next to the door of the wing, price ,to be an- 
nexed to the house in Lew, late the property of Wm. 
Jeeves. 

Also, Thomas Townsend, of xlston, purchased the second 
seat from the door, of the churchwarden thereof upon the 
same terms as above, to be annexed to his dwelling-house. 
Thomas Snell, vicar Thomas Bartlett, Churchwarden. 

Whereas five seats or places are already purchased in the 
front gallery in the north isle ; there remains but one more 
to be disposed of, now left to the choice of Edward Colling- 
wood or his landlord, bearing date as above. 

Mr. Middleton, one of the churchwardens of this parish 
having had notice to produce the key of the chest in the 
vestry, in order to inspect the deeds and writings belonging 
to the free school, and not attending or producing the same ; 



HISTORY OF BAMPTOX. liii 

We, whose names are liereuuto subscribed, in vestry assembled 
do hereby order a ad require the said Mr. Middleton to pro- 
duce the key or keys of the said chest, iu his custody, next Sun- 
day after Evening Service. Witness our hands this 15th day 
of Sept. 1754— ^-Tho. Snell E. Taunton -Gas. Frede- 
rick War. Lisset Jas. Elly John Minchin Pe- 
ter Hill John Collingwood— — Tho. Eox Joseph Eo- 

gers. 

22d Sept. 1754. Ordered by the parishioners now present, 
that Mr. Gascoigne Erederic have liberty, within the space 
of one month from this time, to iuspect the deeds and 
writings in the parish, chest at all seasonable times, in the 
presence of the churchwardens, or any two of them, and 
such other of the parishioners as shall think fit to attend. 

Tho. Snell John Land E. Taunton J. 

Nabbs J. Dewe Rich. Sandelands. 

March 7, 1756. It is this day agreed by vestry to take a 
warrant and take Wm. Ellicksanders to justice for going 
from his family. Mr. Andrew have threatened the preasant 
Church-wardens with a sute for opening the head of Wm. 
Carter killed with a waggon; and the preasant inhabitants 
have agreed to stand the action against the same. Tho. 
Snell,— &c. 

Sep. 28, 1760. It is this day agreed, on account of the 
number of mad dogs lately appearing in this parish, and of 
the numbers that are suspected to have been bit, that every 
person that shall kill his dog and produce it dead before the 
overseer of the poor, shall receive of the said overseer for the 
same one shilling ; and that a person be likewise appointed at 
the parish expense to shoot or destroy all such dogs as shall 
be found at large, after notice given to tie them up, for the 
space of six weeks, and that the parish shall indemnify such 
persons, employed as above, for doing the same, and that more- 
over the person so employed shall have one shilling for every 
dog that he shall shoot or destroy. E. Taunton — C. Hawtrey 
— J. Amphlett — E. Sandelands — Hen. Church — William Mil- 
ler — John Carpenter — Peter Hill — Joseph Andrews. 

Jan. 17, 1762. Ordered that no bread be given to any per- 
son who does not attend divine service. 



Iiv HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

Aug. %\, 1763. It is agreed at a vestry this day that Mr. 
Stevens, attorney at law, be desired to draw up a complaint, to 
be laid before the bishop, against the Rev. Mr. Charles Haw- 
trey for refusing to attend the corpses of this parish into the 
church, and read the service, as by the rubric is appointed : 
and it is agreed likewise, that all expenses attending the same 
be discharged by the churchwardens. Tho. Middleton — Hob. 
Yeatman — and thirty two other names. 

Oct. 23, 1768. Public notice having been given in the 
church for this purpose, it is agreed, resolved and ordered that 
a workhouse, capable of employing and lodging sixty persons 
or more, with proper outbuildings and conveniencies, be forth- 
with erected and built in Posernary lane for the reception of 
the poor of Bampton and Weald, and the trustees of Mrs. Ma- 
ry Dewe's charity having agreed to pay the expenses of the 
workmanship of such erections and buildings, and the occupi- 
ers of lands in Bampton and Weald having agreed to perform 
and do the carriage of all necessary materials, it is further agreed, 
resolved and ordered, that such timber, as will be necessary for 
such erections and buildings, now standing in the Poor's closes 
in Lew, Bampton and Weald, be forthwith felled and cut down 
for that purpose, and the residue of the expense of the other 
materials, and of completing the said buildings, and of furnish- 
ing the same, be raised by subscription, to which the lords of 
the manors are requested to contribute, and that such part 
thereof, as shall not be so raised, be paid out of the poor's 
rates of Bampton and Weald. — J. Amphlett, vicar — &c. 

JNL B. Many other notices occur further on in the volume 
concerning the building, leasing, and management of the work- 
house. 

Jan. 1, 1768. In regard to the contagious feavers, which 
now rages in this parish, we, whose names are hereuuto sub- 
scribed, do think it necessary, and hereby agree, that the School- 
house, being now vacant, shall be forthwith taken to put such 
persons in that are sick, and that proper care be taken of them, 
and that three or four pairs of blankets be bought for the use 
of the sick, and that Eliz. Hill, or, if she refuses, another pro- 
per person be appointed to nurse and take care of them. Gas. 
Prederick, frc, 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. \v 

April 15, 1770. Ordered that the churchwardens do de- 
liver to Mr Frederick the several deeds and writings in the 
church-chest, in order that the same be sorted, and that Ihe 
several charities belonging to the parish may be better known 
and carried into execution — Edw. Church — &c. 

Sept. 8, 1771. Ordered that new feoffments be made of the 
several charity-lands belonging to this parish, by the heirs of the 
surviving feoffees or trustees, to new trustees or feoffees, upon 
trust, for the several purposes, for which the said lands are li- 
mited, conveyed or appropriated, the former feoffees or trustees 
being dead. 

Ordered that notice be given to the several tenants or occu- 
piers of the charity -lands, belonging to this parish, by the church 
wardens and overseers thereof to quit the several lands in their 
possession at Lady-day next, and that the said lands be let by 
auction on public notice to be previously given in the church 
for that purpose. 

Ordered that the churchwardens and overseers do deliver into 
the vestry lists of the several persons, to whom the bread and 
charity-money, given to be distributed among the poor of the 
parish, shall be given, in order that the same may be approved 
of by the vestry before the same be distributed. 

Ordered that the King's Bench and Marshalsea money shall 
not, for the future, be paid out of the rents of the church-land. 
Gas. Frederick &c. 

Oct. 6, 1771. Under this date are lists of trustees chosen 
to be enfeoffed of the following charity-lands. 

The 2 Moor-closes (now in one) and Lake Eeddy. 
Brookfast furlong close and Moor-closes. 
The Appleton estate. 
The School-closes. 

Close-land and commons at Lew, and the Weald closes and 
commons. 

April 26, 1772. Ordered unanimously that the churchwardens 
and overseers of Bampton and Weald do enter into articles 



Ivi HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

with Mr. Edw. Herring, late of Witney, for the maintaining the 
poor of Bampton and Weald for three years from the 11th day 
of May next, at the yearly sum of £ 170, payable according to 
the draft of articles and under certain rules and orders, which 
have been prepared for that purpose and the terms and condi- 
tion mentioned in the said articles. Gas. Frederick 

&c. 

Oct. 18, 1772. Notice having been given in the church on 
Sunday last for the churchwardens since the year 1768 to at- 
tend this day, and deliver in and pass their accounts, which they 
have neglected to do, Ordered that, unless they do deliver in 
and pass their accounts on Sunday next, after evening-service, 
a prosecution be commenced against such churchwardens at the 
charge of the parish. Gas. Frederick, &c. 

March 23, 1771. Whereas public notice was given on Sun- 
day last for a vestry to be held this day at 4 o'clock in the 
afternoon, in order to consult about the times, when it will he 
most convenient for the inhabitants of Bampton to be excused 
from being called forth to perform their statute-duty, accord- 
ing to the indulgence, given them by an act passed in the last 
session of Parliament for the " Amendment and preservation 
of the public highways of this kingdom, " we, whose names 
are hereunto subscribed being assembled in vestry for the said 
purpose, do therefore agree, as well for ourselves as in behalf 
of the rest of the parishioners of Bampton aforesaid, to take 
the benefit of the indulgence of three months given us by the 
said Act for not performing our statute-duty in. And we 
do fix and appoint the said 3 months at the times following, 
viz : that the said inhabitants shall not be called upon to per- 
form such duty between the 8th day of April, and the 8th 
day of May, which we consider as the seed-month, nor be- 
tween the 25th day of June and the 25th day of July, 
which we consider as the hay-har vest-month, nor between 
the 22nd clay of August and the 22nd day of September, 
which we consider as the corn harvest month. Wm. Ro- 
berts — &c. 

April 12, 1775. Whereas it appears from the accounts 
of Mr. Lisset, treasurer of the charity -lands, belonging to 
the poor of Bampton and Weald, that, upon the late advance 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. Ivii 

of the rents of the said charity-lands, the quantity of bread to 
be distributed among the poor of the said parish may be con- 
siderably increased : It is hereby ordered that 66 two-penny 
loaves be weekly distributed amongst the said poor at the usual 
time after divine service on every Sunday, in manner following, 
a two-penny loaf every week to each of the poor persons, whose 
names are mentioned in the list this day signed by us, against 
whose names the letter W is set, and one two-penny loaf every 
other week to each of the other poor persons mentioned in this 
said list : but in case any of the said poor shall neglect to attend 
divine service on any of the said Sundays, not being hindered 
by sickness, he or she or they, so absenting themselves, shall 
forfeit the said bread. J. Mander— v&c. 

May 4th, 1777. Whereas John Hanks and James Saunders, 
Joseph Orpwood, and 'William Brooks have taken possession 
of certain tenements, commons and hereditaments belonging to 
the parish of Bampton, being churchlands, the rents whereof 
are to be applied to the repair of the church of Bampton afore- 
said, and refuse to deliver up the possession thereof, or to pay 
any rent for the same ; we, trustees of the said premises for the 
purpose aforesaid, considering it as our duty to recover posses- 
sion of the said premises, do hereby resolve that prosecutions 
be immediately commenced against the persons who keep 
possession of the said premises, and that Mr. John Leake, 
attorney-at-law, be employed to carry on such prosecution. John 
Mander, &c. 

Eight writings, belonging to Lew estate, was delivered to 
Mr. Leake, the 11th May, 1777, in order to have a case 
drawn thereon for the opinion of counsel. 

As the practice of cutting and stealing wood, &c. is now 
become notorious and shameful, and calls aloud for our most 
vigorous efforts in suppressing so growing an evil, we, the prin- 
cipal occupiers of the lands in Bampton and Weald, now in 
Vestry assembled, do order that all persons, who shall hereafter 
be detected in cutting, taking, and carrying away any sort of 
hedge-wood, damaging or destroying any timber-trees, or the 
lops or tops thereof, without the consent of the owner or 
owners, or shall wilfully break down any gates, stiles, post, or 
rails, &c. from any of the inclosed lands within the liberties 



lviii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

of Bampton and Weald, shall be punished to the utmost 
severity of the law. And in order the more easy to detect and 
bring to justice all persons concerned herein, we do hereby 
promise a reward of half-a-guinea to any one who shall from 
time to time, and at all times hereafter, be the means of con- 
victing all such offenders as aforesaid, to be forthwith paid by 
the overseers, or either of them : and we do further order that 
all other the expenses attendingthe detecting and bringing to justice 
such persons as aforesaid shall be likewise paid by the Over- 
seers, and placed in their accounts, as Witness our hands this 
9th day of Dec, in the year of our Lord 1781 — J. Andrews 
— Wm. Eoberts — &c. 

At a vestry held the 2nd day of June, 1782, ordered that 
five shillings be taken from the ringing-money, and given to 
the choir of singers, and that the farther sum of one guinea 
per year be added to the said sum to be paid by the 
church- wardens — S. Johnson, Yicar — Wm. Church, Curate. 
— &c. 

At the same time agreed that the bel], called the Corfue bell, 
be rung, as usual, at 8 o' clock in the evening all the year, and 
at 4 o'clock in the morning during the summer half-year, viz : 
from Lady-day to Michaelmas. 

Ordered in vestry, this 18th day of June 1786, that it shall 
be decently railed with oak across the chancel near the com- 
munion-table. C. Hawtrey, Yicar. Wm. Hawkins, W. Church, 
Wm. Lissett, Jona. Arnatt, W. King, Wm. Eoberts, Edw. 
Whitaker. 

July 11, 1786. A vestry was then held, pursuant to due 
notice' given for that purpose, to resolve on the best mode of 
letting the church and charity- estates belonging to this parish. 
Present : the Eev. Charles Hawtrey, Jos. Andrews, Wm. 
Eoberts, J. Bantin, Jos. Shingleton, Wm. Lisset, Eob. Yeat- 
man, John Mander. 

Eesolved that the best mode of letting the said church and 
charity-estates, in future, will be by public auction, upon leases 
for a term not exceeding 7 years, with proper covenants for 
the tenants to manure, keep up the mounds, and upon such 
other terms as shall be expressed in the conditions of the said 
auction, to be settled by the majority of the Trustees, previous 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. lix 

to the said auction; and that legal notice be given to the 
several tenants to quit the several lands respectively held 
by them on or before Lady-day next. C. Haw trey — &c. 

May 17th, 1789. At a vestry this day held for the pur- 
pose of choosing a Sexton in the room of Benjamin Collingwood 
deceased ; We, the underwritten, do nominate and appoint Mary 
Collingwood widow of the deceased Benj. Collingwood to hold 
the office of sexton, during the discretion of the parishioners, 
and at the usual stipend ; and that the said Mary Collingwood 
shall cause the bell to be rung as usual, viz. at 5 in the jnorn- 
ing and 8 in the evening, during the whole year, holidays 
excepted. Jos. Andrews, &c. 

N. B. To be understood at 4 in the morning from Lady- 
day to Mich : and from Mich : to Lady-day at 5 in the morn- 
ing. 

Near the end of the volume is a list of the overseers of the 
poor for Bampton and Weald from 1759 to 1794. 

I conclude this section with another extract from the latest 

vestry-book which, being still in use, is kept in the large 

wooden chest before-mentioned. 

4th January, 1829. At a vestry meeting this day held, 
pursuant to due notice for taking into consideration and deter- 
mining upon the necessary measures to be taken for ascer- 
taining in what funds or on what other securities certain 
charity-monies belonging to the town or parish of Bampton given 
by the late Mrs. Snell, the Mrs. Eredericks, and Mrs. Croft, are 
invested, and of the means of restoring or recovering the same 
and appointing trustees, to carry the directions of the different 
donors into execution, and also of considering and determining 
by what means the expenses incurred and to be incurred, in 
and about the same, should be defrayed, and of determining 
upon all other matters which might appear necessary, relating 
to the same charities ; the Rev. Thomas Burrow in the chair : 
Resolved that directions be immediately given by the Parish- 
officers of Bampton and Weald, to Mr. Hose Attorney at law, 
to take such steps as may be deemed necessary or expedient to 



lx HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

ascertain in what fund or funds, or what other securities, the 
said moneys are invested, and to institute such proceedings 
at law or in equity as he shall be directed by the two resident 
vicars and the churchwardens and overseers or the major part 
of them, for restoring, replacing, recovering, or securing the 
said charity-moneys, and appointing Trustees for carrying the 
directions of the different donors into execution, (such trus- 
tees to be nominated at a vestry-meeting, to be called for that 
purpose) : and that all expenses incurred, and to be incurred, 
in and about the same, or in anywise relating thereto, to be 
paid by the said parish-officers out of the poor-rate or rates of 
the said parish, and that the parish be repaid the same out of 
the interest or dividends now in arrear of the said charity-moneys, 
or out of the principal sum or sums thereof. Thos. Burrow, 
chairman. J. E,. Wiustanley, vicar. W. J. Walker. W. Eobeits. 
James Ward. Joseph Hall. James Clack. Bich. Clark, John Knapp. 

At this same meeting it is resolved that all deeds, books, 
parchments, papers, and documents or copies thereof what- 
soever and wheresoever, belonging to or in any wise concerning 
the interests of the parish of Bampton, be forthwith lodged 
in the parish-chest, and be kept under proper locks and 
keys, to be part in the custody of the vicars, and part in the 
keeping of the churchwaidens; and that an immediate appli- 
cation be made by the parish-officers to all those, who may 
have any such documents, as aforesaid, in their possession, to 
be kind enough to deliver up the same for the said purpose — T. 
Burrow &c. [as above and moreover] Wm. Andrews. Edward 
Kerwood. 

Feb. 27, 1829. At a general vestry this day holden in the 
vestry -room, pursuant to due notice, to nominate proper per- 
sons to be trustees of the charities given by the late Mrs. Snell, 
the Mrs. Fredericks and Mrs. Croft, the Eev. Thomas Burrow 
in the chair — Eesolved that the vicars for the time being, the 
churchwardens of Bampton and Weald for the time being, 
Frederick Whitaker esq., Eev. Wm. Jos. Walker, clerk, Jona- 
than Arnatt, Wm Andrews, James Ward, and Thomas Green 
are fit and proper persons to be trustees for the said charities, 
and they are hereby nominated accordingly. Thos. Burrow, 
chairman. J. E. Wiustanley, vicar. James Ward. Jos. Hall. 
Wm. Andrews, James Eose. 



HISTORY OF HAMPTON. lxi 

§ 10. DEEDS IN THE GREAT IRON CHEST. 

Iii the great iroii chest, besides the old vestry-books, are 
contained a large number of deeds relating to the charities 
of the town, securities for charity-money lent on mortgages, 
besides other papers, of a more temporary interest, and now of 
little or no value to the parish. The principal of these 
papers will be hereafter referred to, under the head of the 
" Public Charities of Bampton." 

§ 11. Of the police and civil government of the town. 

Not many years ago the lords of the manor of Bamp- 
ton still continued to hold courts-lee t, to appoint consta- 
bles, and to practise many other feudal customs which were 
general in the days of our forefathers. 

All these customs have now almost entirely disappeared: 
the spirit of the nineteenth century has pushed his re- 
forming progress even faster than the railway, and has 
shown himself in Bampton, where his rival has not yet 
dared to come ! The constables of Bampton are elected 
no longer by the lords of the manor, but according to the 
modern Act of Parliament, by which the duties of those officers 
are now generally regulated. 

The town has a further guarantee for its tranquillity in the 
residence of two magistrates, F. Whitaker, Esq. and the vicar 
of the second portion, the Eev. Dacres Adams. There is also 
a board of Inspectors appointed by the vestry-meeting, to take 



lxii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

further charge of the property of the inhabitants and to enlight- 
en their ways by night. Happily the people of Bampton are 
famous for their honesty and single -mindedness, so that the 
Inspectors, who meet once a month at the Town-Hall, do 
not suffer much from the weight of their public duties. 
Neither do they waste much oil in the service of the inhabi- 
tants : four lamps, affixed to the comers of the Market-house, 
are sufficient to shew by night that there is such a building in 
existence and how dark besides is all around it ! The two 
watchmen and the bedel,* who act under the orders of the In- 
spectors, are a terror to all the evil-doers, old and young, in 
the town and neighbourhood, f 

§ 12. THE TOWN-HALL. 

In the centre of the market-place stands the Town Hall, 
to which I have before alluded at page xxiii. This build- 
ing was erected a few years ago by subscription. The cost 
of it amounted to about £ 300 : and the lords of the ma- 
nor agreed with the subscribers to convey the fee-simple of 
this building to Trustees for the use of the inhabitants for 
ever. This arrangement however has not yet been comple- 
ted, from the deficiency of money to pay the necessary expenses 
of the conveyance. The large upper-room is used for the 

* The bedel of Bampton is a very ancient officer. He occurs in an instrument of 
the thirteenth century. See Appendix, No VI. 

t The population and acreage of the different hamlets of this parish according to 

the last Census are as follows: Bampton -with Weald, pop. 1694. acr. 4070, Aston 

and Cote, pop. 727, acr. 1870.— Brighthampton, pop. 120, acr. 410. Chimney.pop. 

36, acr. 620. Lew, pop. 195, acr. 1500.— Shifford, pop. 52, acr. 860. 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. lxiii 

meetings of the Magistrates and of the Board of Inspec- 
tors, besides other casual purposes, such as for itinerant exhi- 
bitions and the performances of public lecturers. A small 
sum is raised from these sources, but hardly sufficient to 
heat the room and to pay for the windows, which are bro- 
ken by the boys congregated in the market-place below. 

§ 13. OP THE FAIR AND PUBLIC AMUSEMENTS. 

It has often been a subject of regret with those who 
desire to promote the innocent enjoyments of their fellow-ci- 
tizens, that the people in general have so few opportuni- 
ties of meeting together for recreation after their daily labours, 
or for the healthy games and pastimes in which our fathers so 
much delighted; Since the days of the Puritans — those stern 
philosophers, who in avoiding one superstition rushed head- 
long into its opposite, equally if not still more pernicious — all 
the sports and recreations of the people have been abolish- 
ed; or have retired from public view within the doors of 
those who can afford to pay for the gratification. It 
might have been anticipated, from the primitive character of 
Bampton and the adherence of its inhabitants to long esta- 
blished customs, that many ancient practices, elsewhere 
obsolete, would here have been retained with something 
denoting their former history. But the list of these amuse- 
ments and ancient pastimes is brief: and it is to be feared 
that the remnants which still exist may ere long entirely dis- 
appear. 



Ixiv HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

The principal festival of Bampton is its annual fair, 
which takes place on the 26th of August, and is a sort 
of carnival to all the neighbouring villages. This fair is. 
of great antiquity having been originally held by William 
de Valence in the early part of the thirteenth century. We 
learn this fact from an Inquisition made in the reign of, 
Edward I before Jurors, who find upon their oath that the 
" aforesaid William de Valence hath there [ i. e. at Bamp- 
ton] a market and a fair; and that he had the aforesaid 
teuement by the gift of king Henry [the Hid] father 
of the king Edward that now is." 

The celebrity o£ Bampton fair arises from two causes, first 
the large number of horses which are sold there, secondly 
from the large number of children, servants and other 
persons, who flock thither from the whole neighbourhood, 
and enjoy it as much as the Greeks and Romans did 
their Saturnalia. 

A curious tradition has been handed down, connecting 
Bampton fair with the church-establishment ; but as the 
only notice, which I can find of it, occurs in the Raw- 
linson MS before mentioned, I give the words extracted 
from that book, where it occurs under the head of 

Bampton hundred, without word or comment. 

" Fair on the 15th of Aug. and on the next Sunday, 
vhether before or after the said 15th, the Vicar of Ensham 
preaches a sermon and is paid 13s. 4d. by that vicar of 
Bampton who has the tithes of Aston that year : this, I 
believe, was due to the abbat of Einsham formerly." 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. Ixv 

Another season of festivity is Whitsuntide, when the Morris- 
dancers exhibit their saltatory powers for the amusement of the 
people, and to gather a few shilllings for their own private emo- 
lument. As these functionaries do nothing but dance, and 
thoroughly fatigue themselves before night-fall, they may be 
considered to have earned the hot suppers and mulled ale, 
which probably terminate the festival, but have no farther 
claim to delay the progress of this history. 

A third attempt at festivity is made at Christmas, when all 
the officials of the parish are on the move ; bent — as are their 
betters at all times — upon gain, and with honest and smiling 
faces claiming their Christmas boxes. A troop of lads, also, 
as mummers parade the streets during three or four evenings in 
succession, endeavouring, but, alas with less success than their 
great-grand-fathers, to gain admission into the houses of the 
respectable inhabitants for the performance of their knightly 
deeds of prowess. These are the only vestiges of ancient 
public customs now remaining, and little else ever occurs, ex- 
cept the arrival of some stray lecturer or other performer, to 
disturb the repose which generally prevails in this little 
town. 

§ 14. The haunted house, and death-warning of the 

Wood family. 

Every village has its legends and tales of horror, which 

after having caused awe and terror to a former generation, 

j 



lxvi HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

serve to create laughter and amusement to thei rposterity, — 
like a gigantic broad-sword of former days, which having long 
been kept as the monument of some knight's prowess in battle, 
at length is degraded from its place and becomes a hobby to 
one of his great-great-grand-children ! 

Bampton is not without its ghost-stories : the most remark- 
able of these is that of the Haunted House, in which a family 
of the name of Wood formerly resided, and in which certain 
preternatural noises are said to have been heard, forewarning 
the family, whenever any of its members was about to die. I 
have already mentioned this house as situated on the North 
side of the Church, and though bearing a respectable and rather 
smart appearance in front, — the effect of modern improve- 
ments,— it is supposed to be of considerable antiquity, without 
which of course no ghost -story obtains permanent credit. It is 
nearly 200 years ago that the Wood family lived at Bampton, 
and yet the same ghosts, who disturbed their peace, have been 
suspected of having occasioned similar annoyances to respect- 
able and credible persons still living. 

Let us first hear the account which is given of the Wood 
family's warning, as it is told by Dr. Plott in his Natural His- 
tory of Oxfordshire, chap, viii, § 3, &c. 

" I must add also a relation, as strange as 'tis true, of the 
family of one Captain Wood, late of Bampton, now of Brise- 
Norton, Captain in the late wars for the King ; some whereof 
before their deaths have had signal warnings given them by 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. lxvii 

a certain knocking, * either at the door without, or on the 
tables or shelves within, the number of strokes, and the dis- 
tance between thera and the place where, for ihe most part 
respecting the circumstances of the persons to die, or their 
deaths themselves, as will easily be collected from the follow- 
ing relation. The first knocking that was heard, or at least 
observed, was about a year after the restoration of the king 
(anno 1661) in the afternoon a little before night, at or upon 
the door, it being then open, as it was apprehended by Mrs. 
Eleanor Wood, mother to Captain Basil Wood, who only 
(alone) heard it, none being then by or about the house but 
herself ; at which she was very much disturbed, thinking it 
boded some ill to her or hers, and within 14 nights after 
she had news of the death of her son-in-law, Mr. George 
Smith, who died in London. 

About three years afterthat, there were three great knocks 
given very audibly to all that were then in the house, viz. to 
the aforesaid Mrs. Eleanor Wood, Mr. Basil Wood, and his 
wife Mrs. Hester, and some servants, which knocks were so 
remarkable, that one of the maids came from the well, which 
was about twenty yards from the place, to see what was 
the matter; and Mrs. Eleanor Wood, and another maid 
that was within the house, saw three great pans of lard shake 
and totter upon a shelf in the milk-house, that they were 
like to fall down. Upon this violent knocking, Mr. Basil 
Wood and his wife being then in the Hall, came presently into 
the milk-house to their mother, where finding her somewhat 
disturbed and enquiring the reason, she replied, God Almighty 
only knew the matter ; she could tell nothing , but she heard 
the knocking. Which being within doors, Mr. Basil Wood 
concluded must be for some of the family at home, that upon 
the door being for a friend abroad ; which accordingly fell 
out ; three of the family, according to the number of the 
knocks, dying within little more than half a year after, viz. 
Mrs. Hester Wood, wife of Mr. Basil Wood, a child of Mr. 
Wood's sister, and Mrs. Eleanor Wood his mother. 

* " Three loud and distinct knocks at the bed's head," says Grose, " of a sick person, 
or at the bed's head or door of any of his relacions , is an omen of his death." 

For further information concerning this superstition see Brand's Popular Antiquities 
edited by Sir H. Ellis, vol. III. p. 121. 



lxviii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

About August, 1674, Mr. Basil Wood Junior, son of Basil 
aforesaid, living at Exeter, heard the same kinds of knocking, 
at which being disturbed, he wrote word to his father here at 
Bampton in Oxfordshire, viz, that one Sunday he and his wife, 
and her sister and his brother did distinctly hear upon a table 
in their chamber, as they stood by it, two several knocks struck 
(as it were) with a cudgel, one of them before, and the other 
after morning-prayer, a little before dinner. Which letter was 
shown by Mr. Wood Senior, (as the other knockings before 
the deaths of any that died, were before- hand told) to several 
neighbouring gentlemen. After which within about 14 days 
Mrs. Hester Wood, a second wife of Mr. Basil Wood, Senior, 
and about a quarter of a year after, her father, Mr. Bichard Lesset 
died, both at Bampton : since which time they have heard no 
tiling more as yet." 

This is the account which Dv Plott gave concerning the 
Ghost of the Wood family in his natural History of Oxfordshire, 
winch was published in A. D. 1671, and the reader will find 
the subject alluded to in a Catalogue of natural and artificial 
curiosities, &c. printed in the Appendix to this volume, and 
copied out of a Manuscript winch was probably written some 
years before the appearance of Dr. Plott's History. 

The lovers of the marvellous will rejoice to hear that the 
operations of the Ghost have not ceased, after the lapse of 
nearly two hundred years, but, as the family of the Woods 
have long since been deposited " with all the Capulets" in the 
silent tomb, the supernatural agent which formerly announced 
the approaching death of the members of that family, must be 
supposed loath to resign his occupation, and to continue his 
pranks that he may amuse himself with the alarm which he occa- 
sions to his lodgers. 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. lxix 

Certain it is that within the last twenty years the same house 
has borne a suspicious character, and often caused the sobriety 
of its inmates to be called in question for the scampering up 
and down the stairs and other noises, which have taken place 
in it. A gentlemen, not very far advanced in years, who was 
occupying it as Ins residence, has been known to rise from Ins 
bed, and to ascend to the upper-stoty, aroused by the sound of 
footsteps as of some one pacing to and fro in the room above : 
but on Ins entering, the noise has ceased, and every thing par- 
took of the silence and tranquillity of the night. 

The same gentleman, or another — for the most common 
events of history are liable to doubts and contradictions — rose 
on another occasion, in the middle of the night, alarmed by a 
noise in the garden. "Forewarned is half-armed" says the 
proverb, but the hero of this adventure determined to be 
wholly armed for tins supernatural warfare, and had the pre- 
caution to carry with him a great stick — or a sword — for here 
again report has spread different versions of the story — and 
when he reached the garden, brave in conscious innocence and 
fortified by the justice of his cause, he resolved to assume the 
offensive. At the same instant a ghostly whiteness revealed to 
him the position which his foe had taken up : he summoned 
his resolution and raised on high his weapon, which, true to 
the mark, fell with unerring might, and felled to the ground 
— a large sunflower. 

About the same time the game-keeper of the Lord of the ma- 



Ixx HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

nor chanced to sleep alone in this house, and the adventure, which 
happened to him, was fatal — not to the honest yeoman — who 
is still alive after all his dangers, but to the unoffending gate 
of the premises, which was riven and shattered to pieces by 
the blunderbuss which the terrified yet brave retainer discharged 
in the dead of night at the ghost which he said assailed 
him. 

At a later period the owner of this fearful house caused the 
old roof to be removed, and to be replaced by a new one. This 
catastrophe was unexpected and fatal to the ghost, — for 
ghosts like to have a decent house over their heads, as much 
as Christians — and as nearly a thousand rats were seen scam- 
pering off in all directions and no noises have since been heard, 
it is believed that the supernatural occupier must have taken 
advantage of so large a marching army, to cover his own 
retreat and to escape in such good company. 



§ 15. BAMPTON CASTLE. 

At a short distance to the westward of the Church and Dean- 
ery, from which it is separated by the brook that supplies the 
mill, stand the ruins of Bampton Castle : sometimes called 
Ham Court and at present forming two farm-houses, which be- 
long to the Earl of Shrewsbury and Thomas Denton esquire, 
the lords of the manor. These ruins are very scanty and un- 
important in their existing state, being nothing more than the 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. lxxi 

gateway and a fragment of wall furnished with loopholes and 
battlements in the usual manner of such fortresses. Yet notwith- 
standing its mutilated state there are two or three interesting 
portions still existing. The groined roof of the upper chambers, 
the spiral stone stair-case, and the niches in the walls with 
narrow slits for the discharge of missiles, are still curious. 

It has been said that this castle was built by King John, but 
there is no record of his having been the founder. On the con- 
trary, when tbe reader shall have perused the narrative of facts 
which will presently be related in chronological order concerning 
the manor of Bampton and the famous family de Valence, he 
will, I have no doubt, agree with me in the opinion that Bamp- 
ton castle was erected in the year 1314 — 15 by the famous 
Ayhner de Yalence Earl of Pembroke. The following observa- 
tions on Bampton castle are from Skelton's Antiquities of 
Oxfordshire. 

" In "Wood's MSS in the Ashmoleau Museum this castle is 
stated to have been of a quadrangular form, moated round, 
and to have had towers at each corner, and a gate-house of 
tower-like character on the west and east sides. Of these 
Wood's imperfect representations, engraved by Michael Burg- 
hers, and published in Heame's Life of Wood may afford 
some idea. 

Eobert Yeysey, of Chimney, near Bampton, had a parchment 
roll, containing an inquisition concerning the manor of Bamp- 
ton, in which mention was made of the building of this castle, 
when and by whom. Dr. Langbaine, sometime prevost of Queen's 
college, Oxon, had a copy of it. After his death Wood saw it in 
the possession of Dr. Lamplugh, bishop of Exeter. 

When Wood visited Bampton castle, on the 7 th of Septr. 
1664, nearly the whole western front was standiug. 



lxxii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

The Castle will again occur to notice in connection with the 
historical events which have happened in or near the town of 
Bampton. 

§ ]6. LEGEXD OF THE LADY-WELL 

At the distance of ahout 200 yards from the north -wall of 
the Castle is an ancient well, so thickly covered with bushes, 
that a stranger could with difficulty find it without a guide. 
The field, which lies between it and the Castle, seems to 
have been formerly used as a tilting-area in which the garri- 
son assembled for tournaments and other exhibitions. It is 
quadrangular, and surrounded by a moat, which is of lesser 
dimensions than that which protects the Castle itself. In the 
hollow ground formed by the crumbled sides of this moat, 
and near its western angle, the ancient well is situated. 

The water is still of the most pellucid clearness, sweet to 
the taste, though much neglected, full of fallen leaves and 
haunted by vermin. The spot is sufficiently secluded to ac- 
count for the sacred character which it bears and to have call- 
ed forth those feelings of superstition or enthusiasm, which 
were common in the Middle Ages. The stone-work, with 
which the sides of the Fountain are protected from the weight of 
earth and trees, whose roots penetrate through the crevices, is 
still in tolerable preservation although four or five hundred years 
have probably passed away, since it was erected. The little nook 
has in fact, under the patronage of (i Our Lady of the Well," 




RUINS OF CASTL 




THE DEANERY 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. lxxiii 

been hardly touched by the ruthless hands of the spoiler, be- 
fore whom the massive Castle and its out-works have almost 
entirely ceased to exist. Tradition informs us that the Foun- 
tain first attracted the notice of the neighbouring peasants by 
the healing nature of its waters. The cattle of the neighbour- 
hood were thought to be more free from disorders than those 
which fed on other pastures ; and in process of time, its virtues 
were found to apply to the peasants themselves. The piety of 
the Church took a hint from the admiration and credulity of the 
people, and it began to be credibly reported that Our Lady the 
Yirgin delighted to haunt the place, and perforin her per- 
sonal ablutions in the miraculous Well. When this report was 
sufficiently propagated, the inhabitants of the adjoining villa- 
ges nocked thither in large numbers, bringing with them 
their children and relatives, to be dipped in the Well, as a 
certain cure for every species of disease. This practice, — which 
we may be sure was accompanied with the payment of 
some fee or compensation to the guardians of the sacred 
place — continued for many centuries, and almost even to 
the present day. It is only thirty-three years since the 
death of an old inhabitant of the town [Elizabeth Skinner] 
who had known many children, having fits and other dis- 
eases, carried many miles to be cured of their complaints, by 
being immersed in the u Lady-Well." 

The present generation, however, have ceased to avail 
themselves of the medicinal properties of these waters, which 
have either lost their virtue, or are eclipsed by the supe- 



Ixxir HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

or abilities of the Medical Practitioners to whose charge the 
health of Bampton is consigned. 

§ 17. THE GHOST OF COW-LEAS CORNER. 

Many years ago there was a custom, that those who had 
committed suicide should be buried in a place where four 
roads meet, with a stake driven through the body. There is no 
doubt that the effect of this law would be to create horror in 
ignorant minds, and so to deter them from the crime of self- 
murder by the ignominious ceremonial which awaited them and 
the mutilation of their body after death. The origin of this 
custom is lost in obscurity : it is impossible to say whether the 
practice arose from the pious wish to place the remains of the 
deceased under the keeping of the holy cross, of which the 
cross-roads formed a kind of rude imitation, or whether, on the 
other hand, it was done in abomination of the form of the cross. 
Both these feelings have prevailed at different periods of En- 
glish history. I shall make no apology for quoting the follow- 
ing passages in support of both these views. 

Eichard Elecknoe, in his "./Enigmatical Characters," 8vo, 
Lond. 1665, p. 83, speaking of your "fanatical reformers," says, 
" had they their will, a bird would not fly in the air, with its 
wings across, a ship with its cross-yard sail upon the sea, nor 
profane tailor sit cross-legged on his shop-board, or ha\e cross- 
bottoms to winde his thread upon." This whimsical detestation 
of the cross-form, says the author of the Popular Antiquities, 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. lxxv 

" no doubt, took its rise from the odium at that time against 
every thing derived from Popery ." 

The opposite view of the question may be illustrated by 
Dalrymple, who, in his Travels in Spain, says, that there " not 
a woman gets into a coach to go a hundred yards, nor a postil- 
lion on his horse without crossing themselves. Even the tops 
of tavern-bills and the directions of letters are marked with 
Crosses/' 

But it is unnecessary to multiply instances : for in every coun- 
try of Europe for the space of fifteen hundred years the greatest 
respect was paid to every thing which was cross-like in its form, 
and this feeling became at length almost as gross and contemp- 
tible as were the endeavours of the Puritans in after-ages to 
divest themselves of this superstition. 

At the distance of about half a mile from the western extre- 
mity of the town of Bampton, the road which leads to Clanfield 
and Earringdon is crossed by another, which, coming up from 
the hamlet of Weald, continues its course towards the north-west 
to Alvescott, Kencot, Bradwell, and other villages. At this 
point, which is sufficiently exposed to the winds and weather to 
enhance, if it were necessary, the horrors of the ceremony, it 
was customary formerly to bury, in the dead of night and by 
torch-light, the bodies of those unhappy beings, who had relieved 
themselves of the evils," which they knew of," in this world by 
" flying to others which they knew not of." The spot is, how- 
ever, known — not by any appellation derived from the burial 
of the suicide, but by the homely and pastoral designation of 



lxxvi HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

"Cow-leas Corner/'' and all memory of the unhallowed corpses 
which have there mouldered, would long since have perished, if 
it were not for the troubled spirits, which once occupied those 
sinful tabernacles of flesh, but now, ejected from their decayed 
habitations, and no longer liable to be consigned to the Bed Sea 
and other lock-up-places by the Exorcists, which the Church 
once provided, they wander forth occasionally upon the world, 
and, never departing far from their place of burial, alarm the 
farmers and peasants, who pass late at night near the fearful spot. 
There are persons still living, who assert that they have seen 
supernatural appearances in the neighbourhood of Cow-leas Cor- 
ner ; neither can it be said that such persons have been under 
the influence of liquor : for a state of inebriety has the effect of 
multiplying — or at least of doubling — the object which presents 
itself to the eye; and it is certain that all those who have ex- 
perienced such visitations have never seen more than one ghost 
at a time : besides which their veracity has never been questi- 
oned and they have all returned in an alarmed state of mind, 
and often with the loss of a hat, shoe, or some other article of 
dress, in token of the terror occasioned to them by the super- 
natural visitor. 

About two years ago there lived in Bampton an old man, since 
deceased, who formerly travelled as a higier between Bampton 
and some of the neighbouring villages. In following the duties 
of his vocation he passed at ail hours of the night by Cow-leas 
corner, and used to declare, to his dying day, that he had often 
seen the ghost which haunted that place. On ordinary ocea- 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. lxxvii 

sions the apparition kept at a respectful distance from him, and 
having merely shown himself to the higler, vanished in the shape 
of a calf, sheep, or some other rustic animal ; but on one occa- 
sion his proceedings were of a more serious nature and assu med 
rather a diabolical character. The benighted traveller had stop- 
ped so late at the fair some miles from home that he did not 
reach the place till the clock was on the point of striking the 
hour of midnight. On reaching Cow-leas Corner he attempted 
to urge his horse to greater speed, when something passed like 
a flash of lightning rapidly before his eyes. He had no time to 
observe its form, in consequence of the rapidity of its motion. 
A loud noise followed, and the ghost, (for such no doubt it was,) 
glided backwards and forwards with the speed of light and the 
intangibility of a vapour, through the cart of the astonished hig- 
ler, as if he would cut it in pieces. It is not surprising that 
the horse, frightened at these doings, took to his heels, and soon 
extricated his master from this fearful collision with the beings 
of another world. The next morning the higler remembered 
that he had been out in a thunder-storm, but he would never 
allow that he had not been also attacked by the ghost in the 
formidable manner before described. 

But there are persons still alive, who testify that they have 
seen this same apparition. One of these, a respectable trades- 
man of the town, about 35 years ago, when he was 15 years old, 
was returning home between the hours of ten and eleven at 
night, and had proceeded some distance beyond the usual loca- 
lity of the ghost, when he suddenly saw before him an old man, 



lxxviii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

as it appeared, dressed in a low crowned hat and a light-coloured 
foul-weather great-coat, such as the shepherds of this neighbour- 
hood are known to wear whilst attending on their flocks in win- 
ter or at night. Our traveller, taking it for Joseph Hitchcock, 
a shepherd who was known to wear such a costume, called out 
and advanced towards him : but as the one advanced, the other 
receded, so as to keep always the same distance between them. 
This line of conduct denoted something more than a visitor of 
pastoral habits, and caused no little fear in the mind of the young 
man. But, like Hamlet, he determined to follow and see the 
last of the adventure : so he continued to dodge his companion 
uutil they arrived nearly to the grounds belonging to Bampton 
Manor-house. Here the old gentleman turned through a gate- 
way into a field on the left hand side of the road, and the young 
man looking into the field after him, was astonished to see no- 
thing in it but a calf : — the ghost had entirely vanished ! The 
catastrophe had such an effect on him, that he made the best 
of his way home, and for a week or more could hardly recover 
from the shock which he had received. 

§ 18. Of the trade akd occupation of the inhabi- 
tants. 

Tradition — and probably the memory of some of our oldest 
inhabitants — tells us that Bampton was once as famous as Wood- 
stock, for the manufacture of leathern gloves, gaiters, 
and other articles fabricated of the same material ; but Time, 
which has been favourable to the staple manufactures of other 







% ft*! 



SEAL FOUND AT ASTON 




ASTON CROSS 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. Ixxix 

places, has almost destroyed that of Bampton : for the glove- 
trade, formerly so thriving, is now reduced within the narrow- 
est limits ; a single manufacturer of these articles still resides 
in the town, but he is obliged, in order to secure a maintenance 
for himself and his family, to travel to a considerable distance 
round the country, to procure purchasers for the commodity 
in which he deals. 

It may, therefore, briefly be stated that agriculture, — that 
most necessary of all trades and occupations, — engages the 
attention of nine-tenths of the population of Bampton; and 
not without reason, for though nearly all the inhabitants manage 
to pass through life without wearing gloves, yet there is not one of 
them, though too often driven towards such a fate by necessity, 
which is the Mother of Invention, that has yet acquired the 
ability to do without bread and cheese. 

§ 19. Aston. 
The principal village in the parish of Bampton, next to 
the town itself, is Aston, situated about two miles between 
Bampton aud Brighthampton. It is a humble and primeval 
looking place, with nothing, of interest, to attract the notice 
of the traveller. A few years ago a church was erected 
here, partly by subscription, and partly by other means. The 
building is cruciform and commodious, but the architect seems 
to have been content that his work should not rise greatly 
above the mediocrity, which is impressed on all the architectu- 
ral features of the village : it contains no ornamental details 



lxxx HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

whatever. One corner of the north transept is boarded 
off to form a small vestry-room. On the front of the partition 
is the following inscription : 

This chapel was erected in the year 1839 : it contains 500 
sittings, and, in consequence of a grant from the incorporated 
society for promoting the enlargement, building and repairing 
of churches and chapels, 350 of that number are hereby decla- 
red to be free and unappropriated for ever. 

Eev. Cranley Lancelot Kerby \ 

Eev. Dacres Adams > Ministers. 

Eev. John Eobinson WinstanleyJ 

W. Sparrow hawk, chapel-warden. 

Another inscription informs us that " the font was presented 
by the Eev. John Nelson, Sept. 2, 1839." and that "The 
chapel was consecrated A. D. 1840. " 

An elderly inhabitant of the place, Mr. Pox, who lately 
died at the advanced age of 77, gave a donation of £4 per 
annum out of his hard-earned savings, to aid in the maintainance 
of tins fabric for ever. 

Next to the church in importance is the School-house, 
erected by the British and Foreign School Society. This 
is a large and commodious room, and is partly used as a place 
of worship by those inhabitants who are of the Baptist 
persuasion. 

Adjoining to the school is the house of the Baptist minister : 
the present incumbent is the Eev. B. Wheeler, who is much 
respected by all his neighbours for the amiable and peaceful 
tenor of his life. Aston occurs in Leofric's charter, where 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. Ixxxi 

it is called Est-tune, or East-town, but this is all we know 
about its former history. 



§ 20. Cote. 

At the distance of about half a mile eastward from Aston is 
the little hamlet of Cote, consisting of about 30 houses. It is 
in general still more humble and unpretending in its character 
than Aston ; but it contains two objects of interest which merit 
the attention of the reader. These are Cote Chapel and 
Cote House. 



§ 21. Cote Chapel. 

This chapel is one of the most respectable establishments, 
founded for the use of Dissenting Communities, in the whole 
kingdom. 

It was built for the denomination of dissenters called Bap- 
tists, and is endowed with a house for the minister, — a respec- 
table building situated, as was before observed, at Aston — 
and an annual stipend. 

The meeting-house was first registered, as the law required, 
in the month of September, 1703, the ground having been 
given by Mr. John Williams of Aston. 

The ministers of this chapel since its foundation have been 
the following : 



lxxxii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

1. Rev. Joseph Collett * from July, 1703 to 1741. 

2. Eev. Joseph Stennett, Brother of the Eev. Joseph Sten- 
nett, D. D. from March 17, 1742 to 1772. 

3. Eev. Thomas Cunscombe, M. A., from June, 1772 t to 
1798. 

4. Eev. Joseph Stennett, M. A. (son of Dr. Stennett.) 

5. Eev. James Bicheno, J M. A. 

6. Eev. Eichard Pryee. 

7. Eev. Benjamin Wheeler, the present minister, appointed 
in 1840. 

The incumbent of this chapel serves also at a small meeting- 
house in Bampton, in Aston School-room and elsewhere. 

§ 22. Cote House. 
This interesting mansion was probably built in the reign of 
Elizabeth or James I. It has two projecting wings with gabled 
roofs, like nearly all the houses erected at the same period, 
but the wings are of unequal height, which somewhat detracts 
from the grandeur of its appearance. The centre of the buil- 
ding forms a long hall, into which the door, which is in the 
middle of the principal front, opens without screen or vesti- 
bule. At the upper end of the hall is the drawing room, a 
wainscotted apartment, beyond which is an ancient staircase of 
heavy oak leading to the state bed-room, which was once orna- 
mented with abundance of oak carving, but this has within a few 
years been removed by the present owner, H. Hippisley, esq. to 

* Author of a treatise on Divine Providence, and son of Joseph Collett, gentleman, 
of Cote, who lived in a house on the site of the present " Pond-House," which de- 
scended to Mr. John Williams, late of Shifford, who married his grand-daughter. 

t At this time tbe number of members who received the Communion in this 
chapel is registered 102. 

J Author of some works on Prophecy. 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. lxxxiii 

embellish his modern mansion at Lambourn Place, near Wan- 
tage. When Mr. Skelton wrote his work on the Antiquities of 
Oxfordshire, there were some interesting shields of arms on 
painted glass in one of the principal apartments. u Amongst 
these, " says Mr. Skelton, " I noticed the arras of Blount, with 
others of families of consequence, who had probably resided or 
been entertained here, in former times. " 

§ 23. Shiffokd. 
Two miles from Aston and one mile from Cote House is 
Shifford, formerly, as it is said, a place of much consequence ; 
but we find no confirmation of this in ancient records. The 
account which will further on be laid before the reader of its 
having been the place where Alfred once held a parliament, 
furnishes no ground for supposing that it was more than 
a village or small town ; for in those turbulent times, a parlia- 
ment was as rude a body of men as can well be conceived, 
and their parliament-house was more likely to be a wild heath 
than a Westminster Hall. Still there is no doubt that Shif- 
ford was once a more important place than it is now, and 
perhaps contained several houses and streets. At present 
there is nothing but its solitary little church,* 4 or 5 cottages, 
and Shifford farm-house, the property of the Harcourt family, 



* The old church of Shifford which was very ancient, fell down in the year 1772 : 
that, which now occupies its place, is a small building of the most plain, unadorned cha- 
racter. It was not completed till some years after, when the Rev. Samuel Johnson, one 
of the vicars of B ampton, officiated in it. 



Ixxxiv HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

and the residence of their tenant, Mr. Peter Williams, a gen- 
tleman known far and near for his hospitality and honest inde- 
pendence of character, to which the writer of these pages is 
happy to be able to pay this humble tribute. 

Nearly the whole of Shifford district — or parish, as it is 
often improperly called — consists of common fields, almost 
wholly destitute of timber, and lying close upon the river which 
for many weeks in every year overflows its banks and deluges a 
large quantity of land. Further information concerning Shif- 
ford, its ancient history, its manor and other particulars, 
will be given hereafter in the Chronological arrangement of 
past events which have happened in this parish. 



§ 24. Chimney. 
Chimney consists of two farms only, the property of E. M. 
Atkins esq., of Kingston-Lyle in the county of Berks. It was 
once the seat of the Yeseys, one of whom founded the grammar- 
school. There were formerly a fine manor-house and chapel at 
Chimney, but it is now some years since they have been pulled 
down and the materials removed. There is nothing remaining, 
of interest, in the place ; which, indeed, in the winter-season 
can only be approached, owing to the inundation from the 
river, by means of a large farm-horse, kept by Mr. Pinnock, 
the occupier of one of the farms, for the accommodation of his 
friends and visitors. 







LEW CHURCH 




HOUSE AT LEW THE PROPERTY 
OF T. DENTON ESQ R 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. lxxxv 

§ 25. Brighthampton. 
This is a small dependency of Bampton situated on the 
extreme verge of the parish,, and forming a continuous street 
with the houses in the neighbouring parish of Stanlake. It 
contains no interesting object, of any kind. 

§ 26. Lew. 

The small village of Lew, destined hereafter to become 
a separate parish, is situated about 2 miles on the road to 
Witney, from which it is distant about 3 miles and a half. Its 
pretty church was built by subscription in the year 1842. 
There is, also, a small chapel belonging to the religious 
society of Baptists resident at Witney. This building 
was erected by the pious members of that persuasion, before 
Lew church was thought of, to provide for the spiritual wants 
of the poor inhabitants, who could not attend at the parish- 
church of Bampton. 

The principal landed proprietors of Lew, are Thomas Den- 
ton, esq., lord of two-thirds of the manor of Bampton, and 
J. Close, esq., of Clapham. 

§ 24. Of the public charities of Bampton. 

Pew towns of equal size possess so many charitable bequests 

and foundations as Bampton ; and, as is generally the case 

with charities, they appear to have been greatly abused, or at all 

events neglected, and not to have been fully applied to the pur- 



Ixxxvi HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

poses, for which they were intended. But in the present age 
a better spirit is afloat, and it is hoped that all the testamentary- 
bequests of pious and charitable individuals, long since decea- 
sed, may speedily be placed on such a footing as to be produc- 
tive of the most good to the parish for whose use they were 
intended. 

A large number of deeds concerning these charities are pre- 
served in the great iron-chest which is kept in the vestry under 
four locks, but, without other means of information, these 
papers are too imperfect to explain satisfactorily the subjects 
to which they refer. 

It appears that there was formerly a large board suspended 
in the church on which all or most of the Bampton charities 
were inscribed. 

This board has long since disappeared; but fortunately a 

copy of it is found in the Eawlinson manuscript, already so 

often quoted. The account of it given in that book is as 

follows. 

" On the north wall of the Church is a large wooden tablet, 
and on it are these following benefactors mentioned. 

George Tompson, gent., gave six pounds a year for ever. 
Leonard Willmot, of Clanfield, gen., deceased, gave to the 

poor of Bampton forty shillings a year for ever. 
Doctor William Osborn gave one hundred pounds for the 

use of the poor. 
Mr. Eobert Yaisey .gave two hundred to the use of the 

School. 
Mr. John Palmer gave two hundred pounds, one hundred to 

the use of the School, the other to the poor. 
Mr. Henry Coxeter gave ten pounds to the use of the 

School. 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. Ixxxvii 

Mr. Bartholomew Coxeter gave thirty pounds to the use of 

the poor. 
Mr. Eobert Vaisey gave thirty pounds to the use of the 

poore. 
John Tull, baker, gave ten pounds to the use of the poor. 
Thomas Williar, draper, gave ten pounds to the use of the 

poor. 
John Butt gave ten pounds to the use of the poor. 
Doctor Edward Cotten gave the use of fifty pounds to 

the use of the parish of Bampton, to be disposed of to 

those that frequent the Church and receive the Sacra- 
ment. 
Mr. Kichard Coxeter gave the use of ten pounds towards the 

placing out of poor children of Bampton and Weald. 
Toby Sadler, draper, gave fifty pounds to be given in bread 

to the poor of Bampton and Weald. 
Eichard Blagrove gave the use of ten pounds to be given in 

bread to the poor of Bampton and Weald. 
Henry Clanfield gave the use of ten pounds to the poor of 

Bampton and Weald. 
Mr. Eichard Dew gave to the use of the School fifty 

pounds. 
Mr. John Palmer gave the use of fifty pounds to the poor of 

Aston and Coat. 
Mr. Eobert Dale gave the use of five pounds to the poor of 

Aston and Coat. 
Mr. John Moulden of Coat gave the use of five pounds to 

the poor of Aston and Coat. 
Mr. Thomas Cox of Stanford gave the use of five nobles to 

the poor of Coate. 
Madam Dorothy Loder, formerly wife of Mr. John Hancks 

of this parish, gave £ 300 to the use of the poor of Bamp- 
ton and Weald. 
Julian Walter, of Appleton in the county of Berks, gave 

£ 1 8 per annum to be disposed of in bread to the poor 

of Bampton. 
Thomas Hall and Anne his wife, gave the sum of £ 5 

each to be disposed of in bread to widowers and widows 

of Bampton and Weald. 

All good benefactors. 

It appears, from the same Eawlinson MS., that there 



lxxxviii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

was a similar tablet in Sliifford Church : the extract is as 
follows : 

" On a velom in a frame fixed to the north of the cburch. 

Mr. William Farr gave to the poore of Shifford five pounds 
and the use of it to be paid them every year upon St. Thomas's 
day for ever. He departed this life the 30th of Novem- 
ber 1691. His text was in Revelations the 14th and the 13th 
verse : " And I heard a voice from Heaven, saying unto me : 
Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from hence- 
forth, yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their la- 
bours and their works do follow them." 

These lists are, however, of little other use in the present 
day, than as a record of the pious benefactors to whom the pa- 
rish is indebted for the above named sums. A great part of 
the money has been invested in land and other securities, so 
that the charities of Bampton, as they are at present, would be 
almost unintelligible even to the donors themselves. 

The list of Bampton charities in their present state, is 
as follows : 

1. The free grammar-school, founded by E. Yeysey. 

2. Thompson's gift. 

3. Wilmot's gift. 

4. Appleton estate, given by Julian Walter. 

5. Shilton estate. 

6. Hoard's gift. 

7. The Church-lands. 

8. Money lent to the Stokenchurch turnpike-trust. 

9. Legacies bequeathed by Mrs. Susanna Frederick, Mrs. Eli- 
zabeth Snell, Mrs. Mary Frederick, and Mrs. Mary Crofts. 




o 
o 

II 
o 

CO 

< 



O 

zl 
o 

H 

< 

CI' 



rf 



/ 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. lxxxix 

10. Carter's legacy. 

IT. Upper Moor close and Brookfast Furlong close. 
12. Lower Moor close and Lake-Beddy close. 
18. National School. 

14. Mrs. Carr's bequest. 

15. Miscellaneous — lost legacies, &c. 

1. The free Grammar- School. — The Free Grammar-School 
was founded, in the year 1670, by Bobert Vaisey, or Yesey, 
esq. of Chimney, who left £ 400 for the instruction of all boys 
living in the parish and dependencies of Bampton, and in the 
small adjoining parisli of Yelford. The inquisitions and other 
papers printed in the Appendix to this volume will inform the 
reader of many particulars concerning this foundation, which it 
is here unnecessary to repeat. 

The Trustees, still alive, according to the last feoffment, 
dated June 21, 1831, are E. Whitaker esq., Bev. C. L. Kerby, 
vicar of Bampton, Bev. W. J. Walker of Southrop, Mr. Tho. 
Green, Mr. James Ward, Mr. W. Andrews, Mr. William Pryor 
of Aston, Mr. Bichard Townsend of Coate, and Mr. J. Bate- 
man. Their duty is to take charge of and maintain the free- 
hold property which belongs to the foundation, consisting of 
the School-house, a picturesque building situated near the 
church, a small cottage adjoining and three fields situated near 
Eisner's bridge. 

The income derived from the rents, amounts to about £ 28 
per annum, not including the School-house. Other monies 
will probably be attached to the School, when certain arrange* 

M 



*< HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

ments in the court of Chancery shall be brought to completion. 
The master is appointed by the three vicars of Bampton, and 
the heir of the founder, and in case of an equality of votes be- 
tween the four, then the decision shall remain on that side to 
which the heir of the founder shall have given his vote. 

The present master is the Rev. R. G. H. Orchard, but there 
are no pupils, and it is a subject of regret to the inhabitants that 
this foundation is without any benefit whatever to the town. 
It appears, however, that this evil is not so irremediable as in 
the case of many other grammar- Schools, for the foundation is 
unfettered by any conditions "which might perpetuate a course 
of study not adapted to the wants of the people. The original 
statutes seem uow to be lost, but they were apparently extant 
at the time when the Rawlinson MS. was written : for I find 
therein the following extract : 

" School-master Leonard Fell, a poor child, of Queen's Col- 
lege in Oxford, who according to the statutes ought not to be 
a beneficed person." 

2. Thomson' s gift — Mr. George Thompson, whose tomb is still 
seen on the east side of the South transept — a recumbent figure 
under a pediment supported by two fluted columns. — by his 
last will, dated June 6, 1st James I, A. D. 1603, left a 
rent-charge of £ 6 a year issuing out of certain lands situated 
in the parish of Brizenorton, (now given, in sixpences,) to the 
poor of Bampton and Weald. The extract from his will, pre- 
served in the great chest, is as follows : 

Item I will and bequeath to the poor people of Bampton, 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xci 

Lew and Weld,, Marian Startupp and her heirs, Agnes Star- 
tupp the daughter of Humphry Startupp and her heirs, Agnes 
Startupp the daughter of Wm. Startupp and her heirs, Joane 
Tomson my wife during her natural life and Jane Gurlie my 
sister's daughter and her heirs, ALL that my lease of two yard- 
land, with all the appurtenances thereunto belonging with 
divers other particulars, contained in the same lease, set, lying 
and being in the parish of Brisenorton in the county of Oxon, 
granted unto me and my assigns by Mr. Edward Yate, late of 
Buckland, for a term of 2000 years, to the behoof of them, and 
every of them, as in particular, and more at large in this my present 
will, is expressed and set down. And for the better performance 
and more assurance whereof my will is that the feoffees of Bamp- 
ton, Hacldon, Aston, Lew, and Weald, for the time being, shall 
have the custody or keeping of the said lease in trust, to and 
for the use of all the parties prenominate, that the said lease in 
no case should be sold, alienated or altered from the true meaning 
of this my will... then gives several parts of the premises in the 
said lease to Marian Startupp, Agnes Startupp, and Agnes 
paying several yearly sums to his executors ; and to Joane 
his wife during her natural life, and Jeane Gurlie and 
her heirs during the term, all other the contents, as houses, 
lands, and enclosures, commons, rents, profits, and appurten- 
ances whatsoever, not before given and bequeathed in the main 
lease comprised and contained, they paying yearly during 
the whole term to the poor people of Bampton, LeAv, and 
Weald, six pounds to be given and distributed to them by the 
discretion of my overseers and the two Churchwardens of 
Bampton, Haddon, Weald, and Lew, for the time being, at 
two several times of the year, viz. Whit-sunday, and the feast 
of St. Thomas the Apostle, by equal portions, and makes Joan 
his wife and Jane Gurlie his executrixes. Witnesses Bob. Joy, 
clerk, Edward Jones, and William Hanks. 

Proved at Oxford, 4th Feb., 1603.* 

3. Wilmofs gift — See Mr. Hudson's account of this bequest, 
printed in the appendix. The abuse, there mentioned, has been 
remedied since his time : the £ 2 a year are now expended in 



* Mr. Thompson resided where Kerwood's yard (once called D'oyle's yard) now stands. 



xcii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

keeping up a stock of blankets, which are lent to the poor du- 
ring the winter. 

4. Appleton estate, given by Julian Walter. — The Appleton 
estate consists of a house, called the Thames-House, and certain 
lands in the parish of Appleton, containining about 30 acres, 
more or less, bequeathed originally by Julian Walter, who, ha- 
ving no children, executed his will on May 1, 1656, by which 
he gave the aforesaid estate to Trustees for 

" the good and benefit of the poor of the town of Barnpton in tb e 
co. of Oxon, and to the impotent people of the parish of Bamp. 
aforesaid, equally to be divided between them, which pre- 
mises so devised for and to the use of the poor of the said pa- 
rish shall every Sunday in the year for ever after the Sermons be 
ended in the said parish-church, in the forenoon, be distributed 
in wheaten bread by the churchwardens or overseers of the poor 
of the parish aforesaid to the poor and impotent people inha- 
biting in the said parish, in such sort and manner as the bread 

is given at Appleton Provided nevertheless that, if the said 

several churchwardens for the time being of the said parish, or 
any of them shall fail at any time hereafter in the due execution 
of this my will, according to the true intent and meaning hereof, 

that then the use of the poor of the parish to cease, but it 

shall or may be lawful for the Justices of Peace of the Sessions 
to be holden for the county of Oxon and Berks, to take the pro- 
fits, to them so devised for the use of the said poor, and employ 
the same to the enlargement of the causeway at New-Bridge in 
length, and for the maintainance of it for ever, &<&" 

Within a recent period this property has been vested in trus- 
tees by a decree of the commissioners of the Public Charities. 
The last enfeoffment, dated Sep. 25, 1826, vested the trusteeship 
in the hands of Jonathan Arnatt, William Joseph Walker, Fred- 
erick Whitaker, Bobert Bullen, George Bryan Shingleton, Ber- 
nard Green, William Eoberts and John Bateman, with the 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xciii 

proviso that when four trustees should be dead a fresh feoffment 
should be executed. Three of them are already deceased. 

The rents amount to £36 a year, received by the church war- 
dens, who retain 8s. for a dinner, on Holy Thursday, 8s. bread- 
money (as it is termed) for the parishes of Ensham, Witney and 
Standlake, and £2. 8s. land-tax : the rest is given in bread to the 
poor. After Michaelmas, 1848, the rent will be £42. 

5. Shilton estate. — [Eor an account of this charity see Mr. 
Hudson's pamphlet, in the appendix.] The last feoffment is 
dated June 13, 1831, and conveys the trust to the Rev. J. R. 
Winstanley, B. D. } Eev. C. L. Kerby, James Ward, Frederick 

Whitaker, Rev. W. J. Walker, of Southrop in the co. of Glou- 
cester, Jonathan Amat, Tho. Green, Wm. Andrews, Win. Pry or, 
Wm. Sparrowkawkj and Richard Townsend, on trust to let the 
lands at the best annual rent, the rem thereof to 

" be forthwith disposed of and applied to and for the placing out 
and binding of such and so many poor children yearly to some 
good trades in London or the suburbs thereof and not elsewhere, 
as the said Tho. Burrow, J. R. Winstanley, and C. L. Kerby, and 
their successors, vicars of Bam. aforesd. for the time being, or the 
major part of them shall from time to time think fit and appoint/'' 

The rents now produce £ 30 per annum, and help to pay 

the salaries of the master and mistress of the National School. 

After the present lease is expired, they will be raised to £40. 

The Report of the Charity-commissioners states that this land 

was purchased with the bequests of Dorothy Loder, Dr. Gotten, 

and Richard Coxeter. [See Appendix, No. XIX.] 

6. Hoard's gift. — This charity will be best understood by the 
perusal of the following printed paper, formerly in circulation. 

N 



xciv HISTORY OF BAMPTOI7. 

" An Abstract of the gifts of Thomas Horde Esq. for 
the benefit of his Neighbours in Aston and Coate, in the Coun- 
ty of Oxford. 

N. B. The Trustees are to deduct all their charges out of 
the rents of the Lands charged: 

Mr. Horde, by deed dated the sixth day of August in the 
year 1709, did give certain Lands in Aston and Coate to Trus- 
tees, in trust to raise the yearly sum of Forty Pounds for ever, 
free from taxes, whereof the yearly sum of Twenty-four pounds 
is to be disposed for the benefit of the poor Prisoners in the 
Castle in Oxford, in such manner as in the same deed is ex- 
pressed, and the remaining Sixteen Pounds per annum is to be 
bestowed in the manner following, Yiz : The Churchwardens 
and Overseers of the Poor of Aston and Coate are, with Ten 
Pounds thereof, to provide yearly ten woollen coats, and ten pair 
of stockings for Men, and ten coarse woollen waistcoats, and 
ten canvas shifts and ten pair of stockings for Women, and to 
deliver them to the Men and Women upon the feast of Saint 
Michael the Arch-angel in every year. — The Men and Women 
are to inhabit within the Tillages of Aston and Coate, and are 
to be elected by th.3 Lord of the manor of Aston, and the six- 
teen persons commonly called the sixteens or the major part 
of them. 

The Churchwardens and Overseers of the Poor, upon the 
feast of St. Michael in every year, are to give an account to the 
Lord of the manor, how they have disposed of the Ten Pounds 
that year, and what remains of it is to be distributed, by the 
same Churchwardens and Overseers, amongst the poor men and 
women who shall receive the clothes that year. 

The remaining Six Pounds per annum is to be paid yearly, 
by the Churchwardens aud Overseers of the Poor, to some man 
or woman, inhabiting in Aston, being of a sober life, to be 
named by the Lord of the manor and the sixteens, or the major 
part of them ; who, for that money is to teach twenty such poor 
children, inhabiting in Aston and Coate, to be elected by the 
Lord of the manor and the Sixteens or the major part of them, 
to read English until they can perfectly read the Bible ; — But 
if the Master or Mistress shall teach but fifteen such children, 
then he or she shall receive but Eive Pounds per annum • and 
if but ten such children, then but Pour Pounds per annum, and 
if but five such children, then but Three Pounds per annum. 
And the residue of the said yearly sum, in every such year, is 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xcv 

to be distributed amongst such poor Widows in Aston and 
Coate, as the Lord of the manor and the sixteeus or the major 
part of tliem shall appoint. If no man or woman, capable 
to teach English, shall inhabit in Aston, then any man or 
woman, inhabiting in Coate, is to be elected in the manner and 
for the purpose aforesaid. 

All the children are to be taught the Church Catechism, and 
shall, in the hearing of the Master or Mistress, pray every morn- 
ing at their coming to school, and every evening at their going 
from thence; and shall be chastised for swearing, lying, or 
other misbehaviour. 

The Lord of the manor, and the Minister of Shifford, and the 
Churchwardens and Overseers of the Poor of Aston and Coate 
or the major part of them (as often as they please) are to exam- 
ine the behaviour of the Master or Mistress, and to displace him or 
* her for such cause as they shall judge reasonable, and to elect 
another in the room of the person so displaced. 

Abstracts are to be printed of these Tmsts, for the use of the 
Trustees and others — one of them is to remain in Shifford 
church and another with the Lord of the manor — And as of- 
ten as seven of the Trustees die, the survivors are to renew the 
trust, and make up twelve Trustees, of whom the President of 
Trinity College, the Recorder of Oxford, and the owner of Mr. 
Horde's mansion-house in Coate for the time being, are always 
to be three. 

Mr. Horde's Heir-at-Law for the time being is to have the 
overplus of the rent, which shall remain more thau Forty Pounds 
per annum : and if the rents fall short and will not yield that 
sum, then other lands of Mr. Horde's in Eaton Hastings in the 
County of Berks are charged to make up the deficiency, and 
while Mr. Horde's heirs duly pay the yearly sum, they are to 
have the possession of the lands charged Avith it. 

The names of the Trustees — Dr. Dobson, of Trin. Coll. Oxf. 
Dr. Brathwait, Warden of New College. Dr. Edwards, Prin- 
cipal of Jesus College. Dr. Paynter, Rector of Exeter College. 
Dr. Dunstar, Warden of Wadham college. Mr. Allen Hord. 
William Wright, esq. Recorder of Oxford. Jonathan Castle- 
man, esq. Alderman White. Alderman Pi nn el. Mr. Math ew 
Pinnel. Bamp., Oxon. printed by W. Holloway, MDCCCXIII." 

7. Church-lands. Under this name are included certain 

fields, which belong to the parish, and the rents of which are 



xcvi HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

recei\ed by the church -wardens and help to pay the expenses 
of the church,, thereby rendering the church-rates so much 
lighter npon the inhabitants. These fields are four in number : 
One at Lew containing abont 3 acres, at present let to Mr. 
Jeeves, — One in Clanfield lane, containing 4a. Ir. 87p. let 
to Mr. Perkins — Another in Clanfield lane, containing 3r. 7p. 
let to Mrs. Clare of Clanfield — One near the road to Tadpole, 
containing la. 2r. 36p. and let to Mr. Eisher. 

The rents of these fields at present amount to £ 24. 15s. Od. 
There is no trust for three of them; but for the first the last 
feoffment was made by Mr. J. Banting, the only surviving 
trustee, June 21, 1831, to eight of the inhabitants, on condi- 
tions similar to those before mentioned. 

A paper containing an accouut of the Bampton charities, 
and printed by Bailey, 116 Chancery Lane, some years ago, 
says that the house standing in the midst of the Lew close, 
some land in the Common-field and five cow- commons ; besides 
four houses, and an acre of land in Weald, also formed part of the 
church-lands. I have heard it hinted that certain acres of land 
awarded in lieu of the cow-comrnons and land in the common, 
might still be recovered for the use of the parish. 

8. Money lent to the StoJcenchurck turnpike-trust — About 
thirty years ago, large subscriptions were collected by the Rev. 
Dr. Richards, one of the vicars of Bampton, amounting finally, 
with other contributions, to £1300. This sum has been since 
lent to the trustees of the Stokenchurch turnpike-road : the 
vicars conjointly with the two churchwardens are trustees for the 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xcvii 

money. The interest of £600 at 4 per cent, viz. £24 a year, 
is paid to the organist : £20 is devoted to the use of the National 
School of Bampton, and £8 is given to the poor in bed-linen. 

9. Legacies bequeathed by Mrs. Susanna Frederick, 8fc. 
— Mrs. Susanna Frederick, by her last will, dated April 29, 
1789, bequeathed the interest of £300 stock in the South-sea 
annuities for the use of the Sunday-schools. Her executor was 
the late Edward Whitaker esquire. 

Mrs. Elizabeth Snell, by her last will, dated June 29, 1787, 
left the sum of £200 in the hands of Edward Whitaker, Wm 
Roberts, and the Rev. Eras. Smith as trustees. This money was 
afterwards placed out in purchasing £268, 3 percent consols. 

Also the same Mrs. Elizabeth Snell, and Mrs. Susanna Erede- 
rick, in conjunction with Mrs. Mary Erederiuk, in the year 
1784, purchased £400 Stock in the 4 per cent Bank Annui- 
ties, and vested it in the names of William Hawkins, John 
Mander, William Boberts and Edward Whitaker, for the use 
of the Master of the Grammar- School, on condition that he 
should teach Reading, Writing, English and Arithmetic to all 
such boys, not exceeding the number of 10, as should for that 
purpose be nominated and appointed, after the decease of the 
said donors, by the said Trustees and their successors &c. In 
1829 the amount of Stock was £418. 17s. 6d. 

Mrs. Mary Crofts, by will dated on or about March 4, 1717, 
left £100 to be laid out in land, and the interest to be applied to 
the use of the Master of the Eree School, for instructing 12 poor 
boys and girls of the town of Bampton in the English tongue, 



xcviii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

until the) 7 shall be able to read well in the Bible ; but, if the 
School-master refuses or neglects to do so, then the profits 
shall be applied to the use of such Schoolmaster or 
Schoolmistress as by the appointment of her executor John 
Frederick, and his heirs, should yearly teach the said children 
in the manner aforesaid. The value of this Stock, in 1829, 
was £135. 7s. 3d. 

Concerning all these gifts there is a deed of declaration, dated 
Dec. 31, 1792, setting forth the objects as aforesaid. The 
whole of this money, amounting to several hundred pounds, is 
still lying in that secure treasure-house, the Court of Chancery ! 

10. Carter's Legacy. — Joseph Carter, mariner, of Bristol, 
by his last will, dated Aug. 6, 1768, and proved in London, 
July 8, 1769, bequeathed, amongst other legacies, £50 

" to the Minister and Churchwardens for the time being of the 
said parish of Bampton in the county of Oxford, to be by them 
placed out at interest, and the interest thereof annually divided 
amongst the poor of the parish of Bampton aforesaid, not recei- 
ving parish-pay." 

This legacy of £50 has, of late years, been reduced to less than 
half of its original amount ; for, having been deposited in the 
care of the late Mr. Burrow, one of the vicars of Bampton, it 
remained in his hands until his death, when it appeared that 
the affairs of the deceased were in a state of insolvency, and only 
about £20 were recovered for the parish, amounting in 1814, 
with interest, to £30. 3s. 6d., and lying in the charge of the Rev. 
D. Adams, one of the present vicars of Bampton. 

11. Upper Moor close and Broohfast Furlong close. See Mr. 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. xcix 

Hudson's pamphlet for an account of these lands, which were 
purchased with the legacies of John Holloway and others. 

They produce at present £10. 19s. half-yearly: of which 
£ 2. 14s. 9d. is added to a fund, which accumulates until there 
is enough to pay a fee for apprentising some poor boy or girl : 
£6. 16s. 10 J is given to the churchwardens to en crease the bread- 
fund, and £1. 7s. 4§ is distributed half-yearly in half-crowns. 
After Lady-day the rents will be £30 a year. 

12. Lower Moor close and Lahe-Reddy close. It appears 
that the latter of these fields, about two acres, was sold some years 
ago by the authority of the commissioners when the Inclosure 
took place. The Lower moor close, about 9 acres and a half, is 
now rented by Mr. Bateman and produces £15 per annum, of 
which. £3. 4s. is added to the bread-fund : the rest, minus land- 
tax, is given to the vicars' fund for supplying the poor with coal 
during the winter. After Lady-day, 1849, the rent will be raised 
to £20 per annum. These fields were purchased with the lega- 
cies of John Palmer and others. 

13. National Sc/wol. There appear to be no trustees of 

this institution. There is a large building near the centre of 

the town, consisting of an upper room occupied by the girls 

and a lower room, by the boys. The master receives £ 20 a 

year : the mistress £ 15 a year : a miserable pittance, when we 

consider the importance of their duties : they receive also one 

penny a week from each pupil. The salaries are paid out of 

the following sources: £30 a year the rent of the Shilton 

estate, £ 20 interest of money lent to the Stokenchurch turn- 
L.ofC. 



c HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

pike trust, and £ L. 10s. paid by Mr. Waite of Aston, the rent 
of a smsll piece of land in Shilton meadow, appurtenant to the 
Shilton estate, but let to him separately. 

14. Miss Carrs bequest. .Miss Carr, organist of Bampton 
church, by her will, dated Aug. 16, 1811, bequeathed £100 
to her successor. As the words of the will were not thought 
sufficiently explicit, Miss Ann Whitaker, who succeeded Miss 
Carr in the office of organist, by a deed of declaration, dated 
April 30, 1845, vested the trusteeship of the £100, minus £10 
legacy-duty, in Ered. Whitaker esq., Bev. D. Adams, Be v. E. 
Barnes, and A. Close esq., the interest to be paid to the organist 
of Bampton church for ever. 

•15. Miscellaneous } lost legacies, fyc. Such are the folllowiog : 

The Workhouse, and the land on which it stood, formerly the 
property of the parish, were sold in 1840, and the proceeds paid 
over towards the expense of building the Witney Union. 

Mr. E. Church's legacy, called the Widows' estate by Mr. Hud- 
on, seems never to have become the property of the parish. 

Mrs. Leverett's, and Mrs. Susanna Frederic's second legacy of 
of money lent to Mrs. Leybourne, and the latter lady's bequest of 
one guinea for a sermon. I have not, been able to procure any 
information concerning these bequests beyond that which is to 
be found in Mr. Hudson's pamphlet. 

Mrs. Dewe's legacy. This money, having been for some years 
employed, according to the will of the donor, was eventually lent 
with the other monies, altogether £1300, to the Stokenchurch 
turnpike trust. 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. ci 

■§ 28. MANORS OF BAMPTON, BAMPTON-DEANERY, ASTON, 
ANB SHIFFORD* 

" It would be beyond the scope of my design, and at the same 
time uninteresting to the general reader, and to those who from 
local circumstances feel interest in the perusal of these pages, 
were I to enlarge upon the origin and nature of what is called 
a Hundred or a Manor ; but as the town of Bampton is the Hun- 
dred-Town, and there will be found in the appendix some tran- 
scripts from records relating to the Hundred and Manor of Bamp- 
ton, it may, for the better understanding them, be useful to fur- 
nish the reader with a few general observations on the subject. 

The division of the kingdom into counties, hundreds, and ti- 
things, is said to have been the work of King Alfred, and Ins 
object the prevention of rapine and disorder, which prevailed in 
his realm. But neither the mere separation of a given portion 
of the kingdom and calling it a county, nor a portion of a coun- 
ty and calling it a hundred, nor of a hundred and calling it a 
tithing, would in itself at all advance this object. It was by 
instituting certain courts or tribunals within these particular li- 
mits, that he hoped to accomplish his object, and, as has been 
said of him, to bring Justice home to every man's door ; hence 
in glancing at the courts which from these views of the king 
sprang up, we shall have to notice the very courts, which until 
lately were held within the hundred and manor of Bampton. 

In ancient times it was the duty of the Sheriff of a county 
to make his circuit through every hundred of his county twice 
in the year, and to hold a court for the reformation of common 
grievances, and for the preservation of the peace and good go- 
vernment of the kingdom; at which court all the inhabitants 
above twelve years old (with some exceptions) were bound to 
attend, to make inquiries of all offences, and also to give secu- 
rity to the public for their own good behaviour, by taking an 
oath to be faithful to the king and to observe his laws. And 
they were to incorporate themselves into some free-pledge or 
tithiug, which formerly comprised a certain number of families 
living together in the same precinct, the members whereof were 
every one of them mutually bound for each other, and punish- 

* I am indebted for the contribution of this section to the kindness of Fred. Whitaker. 
esq., J. P., lord of the manor of Bampton deanery, and well acquainted with the whole sub- 
vert of manors, their nature and jurisdiction, 

O 



cu 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 



able for the default of any member of a family in not appearing 
to answer for himself on any accusation made against him. 

The jurisdiction of the Sheriff extended to every hundred in 
the county, unless, by prescription or by virtue of some grant or 
charter, it had come into the hands of some private Lord of the 
Le?t, as the Hundred and Manor of Bampton had by the grant 
of King Henry the 3rd [No. IV in the appendix] come into the 
hands of William de Yalence. These grants or charters usually 
specified the powers with which the Lord of the Leet and the 
Manor was to be invested, and the instruments of punishment 
which he was to keep. Amongst the latter, which he w r ould 
have by law without enumeration, as incident to the situation of 
Lord of the Leet, was a pillory, and a tumbrell or cucking-stool : 
the former is a well known instrument of punishment; the 
latter, because not so well known, I shall describe out of Jacob's 
Law Dictionary. " Cuckingstool is an engine invented for the 
punishment of scolds and unquiet women, by ducking them in 
the water, called in ancient time a ' Tumbrell ' and sometimes a 
'Trebuchet. , ...And it was in use even in the time of our Sax- 
ons, by whom it was described to be Cathedra in qua rixosoz mu- 
lieres sedentes aquis demergebantur" A chair or stool in which 
scolding, brawling women being made to sit, were plunged over 
head and ears in water. 

An indefinite number of hundreds made up a county, but ten 
tithings, hamlets, or lownships were said formerly to have made 
up a Hundred, for every one of which tithingmen were appoin- 
ted at the court-leet of the Hundred ; but since an Act of Par- 
liament passed on the 12th of August, 1842, the office of a 
tithingman is no longer in use, and the appointment of consta- 
bles was taken from the Lords of the Leet, and is now made by 
Justices of the peace at a special Sessions of the peace : in the 
Hundred of Bampton it is made at Burford for the western, and 
at Witney for the eastern division of the Hundred. 

In ancient times there was a ceremony, performed at courts- 
leet, which consisted of what was called view of frank- or free- 
pledge. Here the heads of the different families of the different 
tithings presented themselves to the Lord or Steward of the 
court, and a certain number of neighbours became bound, one 
for another, to see each man of their pledge or tithing forthco- 
ming at all times, or to answer for the transgression done by any 
one who was gone away ; and when any one offended^ it was 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. em 

forthwith inquired to what pledge lie belonged, and then the 
members of that pledge either produced the offender within 31 
days, or satisfied for his offence. This mode of making one 
neighbour in a tithing become responsible for another, has, look- 
ing at the then state of society, beeu highly commended by law 
authors, and is said by Sir William Blackstone to have been the 
invention of King Alfred and not merely to have been intro- 
duced by him from any other country. 

As to Manors : According to that great lawyer, Sir Edward 
Coke, in his treatise on Manors and Copyholders, the Saxons, if 
they had not Manors in precisely the way in which they existed 
after the introduction of the feudal system at the conquest, had 
yet, says he, demesnes and services, the two material causes of 
a Manor. These demesnes they called " Inlands," because the 
Lords kept them in their own hands ; their services they called 
" Utlands," because those lands were in the manurance and 
occupation of certain tenants, who, in consideration of the pro- 
fits arising out of these lands, were bound to perform unto their 
Lords certain duties and services. 

Of these demesne lands, says Sir Edward, one sort was called 
u Booked," because they passed oy book, — and they in fact 
differed nothing from our freehold lands at this day, — the other 
sort was called " Eolkland " because they passed by polls, and 
were claimed aud challenged by the tenants, not by assurance iu 
writing, but only by the mouth of the people, (per vocem popu- 
lij : and they in effect differ nothing from copyhold lands at 
tins day. 

But it is from the Kormans, says he, that we had the very 
form of Manors, which is observed amongst us at this present 
day. They it was, who introduced into tins country the law of 
feuds, which, says Sir William Blackstone, had its origin from 
the military policy of the northern or Celtic nations, the Goths, 
the Huns, the Franks, the Vandals, and the Lombards, who 
poured themselves, on the declension of the Roman empire, 
into all the regions of Europe, whose conquering general, to se- 
cure their new acquisitions, allotted large districts or parcels of 
land to the superior officers of the army; and thus began that 
celebrated honourable species of tenure called Knight-serv ee 
arid in law-Erench Service de Chevalier, to a state of society ari- 
sing from which Mr. Burke alludes in the following -well-known 
celebrated passage. "But the age of chivalry is gone. Thai- 



ei'v HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

of sophisters, economists, and calculators has succeeded, and the 
glory of Europe is extinguished for ever. Never, never more 
shall Ave beheld that generous loyalty to rank and sex, that 
proud submission, that dignified obedience, that subordination of 
the heart, which kept alive even in servitude itself the spirit of 
an exalted freedom. The unbought grace of life, the cheap de- 
fence of nations, the nurse of manly sentiment and heroic enter* 
prise is gone ! It is gone, that sensibility of principle, that 
chastity of honour, which felt a stain like a wound, which inspired 
courage whilst it mitigated ferocity, which ennobled whatever it 
touched, and under which vice itself lost half its evil by losing 
all its grossness/'' 

This mixed system of opinion and sentiment, he continues, 
had its origin in the ancient chivalry. And this ancient chival- 
ry was in lull vogue and vigour at the time of the grant of the 
manor of Bampton to William de Yalenee. Upon that grant 
being raade r he became immediate tenant or tenant in capite to 
King Henry the Srd 7 and held by Knight-service or as the 
French called it Service de Chevalier. 

It is universally admitted, I believe, by law-writers that a ma- 
nor could not be created subsequently to the statute of ' Quia 
emptores terrarum ' in the ISth year of the reign of King Ed- 
ward the 1st, but before that statute it was competent to a tenant 
in capite or even a mesne lord to grant a portion of the land 
of a manor to another person, and to make of this portion a 
new manor to be held of himself. When this was done such a 
lord was called a mesne-lord, who might hold manor-courts in 
that portion as his immediate lord had done before in the ma- 
nor before su3h separation. 

Of these manor -courts the court of the freeholder was called 
the Hallmote or Court-baron : that of the copyholders the copy- 
hold or customary court of the manor. In the former the free 
suitors were the judges: in the latter the lord or his steward. 
The court-baron was the court where justice and equity were 
dispensed among the freehold tenants of the manor by the ten- 
ants themselves assisted by the lord or his steward, and down 
to about A.D. 1 800, it appears by the courtbooks, cognizance was 
taken of causes under 40 shillings at courts held in Bampton. 
The copyhdd or customary court was the court for the lord's 
villains, who held at the will of the lord and were for a long 
time his vassals, removable whenever he should manifest his 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. cy 

will ; but afterwards, when they had acquired a firmer and less 
slavish possession, they held and now hold at the will of the 
lord nominally, but really according to the custom of the manor 
and this custom is the charter of their rights. 

In the parish of Bampton there are no less than four manors 
or reputed manors: 1. The Manor of Bampton, 2. The 
manor of Bampton deanery. 3. The Manor of Aston. 4. 
The Manor of Shifeokd. The original records, from which 
we obtain nearly all our information on this subject, will be 
found in the Appendix : to which may be added incidental no- 
tices found in various works, and some charters concerning, 
Shifford in Dugdale's Monasticon Anglicanum. 

1. Tha Manor of Bampton appears to have been in the 
hands of the Conqueror at the time of the Domesday survey : 
it was afterwards granted to the Count of Boulogne, but again 
becoming royal property, was granted by Henry III to Will- 
iam de Yalence and descended to his son Aylmer de "Va- 
lence, who dying without issue, it fell to his heir Elizabeth 
daughter of John Comyn of Badenhaugh. This lady mar- 
ried Richard Talbot, who received from Edward III a grant 
of free warren, dated April 10, 1341. The family enjoyed 
their estate and privilege of free-warren here, until the 9th 
year of Henry V, when the property passed to the heroic 
Sir John Talbot . Erom this time to the present it is my 
belief that the manor of Bampton has never wholly been 
out of the hands of the Shrewsbury family, though Mr. Skelton, 
apparently following the account given of it in the Beauties 



evi HISTORY Q,F BAMPTON. 

of England and Wales, a work of little authority, tells us that 

" On the 8th July, 1425, Sir William Molins died possess- 
ed of this manor witb others in the county. In 1441, Eobert 
Hungerford, Esq. having married the daughter and sole heir 
of Sir. Wm. Molins, had possession of the lands of her inheri- 
tance. King Edward the 4th subsequently seized upon the 
manor, in consequence of Eobert lord Hungerford having 
sided with the Lancastrians, and disposed of it to John lord 
Wenlock." 

But I suspect that the family of Molyns and Hungerford 
held the manor of Aston and not of Bampton ; for the pre- 
sent lords of the manor of Bampton are Thomas Denton, esq. 
who holds two-thirds, and lord Shrewsbury, who still holds one 
third of the manor of Bampton, as it would appear, by descent 
from his ancestor Richard lord Talbot, who first brought it into 
the family. The two-thirds, which have been alienated, passed 
by marriage from the Talbots to the Coventry family, from whom 
they were purchased by the present possessor. 

2. The manor of Bampton: deanery is of an earlier ori- 
gin than the larger manor within winch it lies ; having been 
first granted by Leofric to the Dean and chapter of Exeter A. D. 
1044. It has remained in their hands until the present time, 
except for a short period when it was sold with other church- 
lands in the time of the common-wealth. The present lord of 
this manor is E. Wliitaker esq. holding by lease from the Church 
of Exeter. 

3. The manor of Aston first appears as having been granted 
before the year 1249, to Hubert Pogges, whence it is sometimes 
called Aston-Pogges : and by the Inquisition of 3rd Edward 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. cth 

I, it appears that it was held of the superior manor of Bampton 
by the presentation of a sword or the payment of 1 s. 6d. This 
sum is still paid yearly at Cote House by the present lord of 
the manor E. Hippisley esq., to whom it was bequeathed by the 
last surviving member of the Horde family. 

We learn from Dugdale's Baronage of England, vol. II, p. 
143, that Margaret, daughter and co-heir of Robert Pogeys of 
Stoke in Buckinghamshire, married John Mauduit of Sumer- 
ford in Wiltshire, and that their cousin and heir ^Egidia mar- 
ried John Molins, ancestor of William lord Molins, who 
[Dugd. p. 147] "being also a knight, died 8 Maii, 7 Hen. VI, 
(slain at the siege of Orleans in Erance, as it seems) being then 
seized of the manors of Somerford, Lee, W hittelee, Box, Trow, 
Earnhill, and Gore, in com. Wiltes, Broughton, Henley upon 
Thames, Aston, Bampton, and a fourth part of the manor of 
Stanlake, in com. Oxon." 

The daughter and heir of Sir William Molyns, Eleanor, married 
Robert Hungerford, esq., eldest son of Sir Robert Hungerford, 
who thus, by right of his wife, came into possession "of the 
lands of her inheritance, part of which were, Henley-upon- 
Thames, Broughton, Aston, Bampton, and a part of the manor 
of Stanlake, com. Oxon." See Kenneths Parochial Antiquities, 
p. 562. This Robert Hungerford, says Dugdale, was sum- 
moned to Parliament by the title of lord Molins in the 23rd of 
Henry YI. In what way the manor of Aston came into the 
possession of the Horde family I have not been able to 
ascertain. 



cviii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

4. Concerning the manor of Shifford, in early times, tkere 
is great obscurity : in a charter, by which Ethelmare or 
Aylmer, earl of Cornwall, before the year 1235, gave certain lands 
to the abbey of Ensharn, which he had just founded, appears 
the w vill of Scipford, " and a charter of confirmation 
by Eemigius, bishop of Lincoln, who died and was buried at 
Ensham, mentions " Scipfort " amongst the possessions of 
the abbey. [See Bishop Kennet, and Dugdale's Monasticon, 
III, pp. 15. 30.] It is however probable that no manorial 
rights were granted to the abbey, for we find that the man- 
or of Shifford was in the hands of Edward Crouchback son 
of Henry III, from whom it descended to Henry, earl of 
Lancaster, then to his daughter Blanch, from her to John 
of Gant, duke of Lancaster, and to his son Henry IV. 
Part of the parish of Stanlake was included in the royal 
property, of which Gaunt House, with its moat, is still a 
remnant. When the abbeys were dissolved by Henry VIII, the 
manor of Shifford was granted to Edward lord North : its lands 
&c. were then valued at £ 21. 14s. 6d. less, outgoings paid to 
the receiver &c. £4. 3s. 4d. "and so remaineth clear £17. 
10 s. 2d." [Valor Eccles. II, 208. Dugdale III, pp. 27—81.] 
The hamlet of Shifford, as royal property, was exempt 
from the following imposts : lelonio, passagio, stallagio, tollagio, 
tallagio, carriagio and terragio, throughout the whole kingdom . 
These were different tolls and duties leived on the erection 
of stalls, the sale, carriage, aud passage of goods, but it is 
difficult to ascertain their exact nature. 



$j T 




COTE HOUSE . 








SHF.FFORD CHURCH 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 



<*x 



NOTE. 



The manor of Shifford lias, of late years, fallen into a sort of abeyance, no doubt be- 
cause the population has become so small, and from the fact that almost the whole of it 
is divided between the two large farms, called Old and New Shifford. The tenants of both 
these farms have for a large number of years been members of the family of Williams. 
The late Mr. John "Williams (formerly of Coate) who died in 1801, with his sons Mr. Mi- 
chael and Mr. Peter Williams (the present tenant) have successively held the farm of Old 
Shifford of the earls of Harcourt. 

Mr. John Williams's ancestor, a Yeoman of the same name, migrated from Brecknock- 
shire towards the close of the reign of Charles the first. According to tradition, Mr. Wil- 
liams left Wales on account of religious persecution, and on his arrival at Coace joined a 
congregation of Baptists who assembled for divine worship in the neighbouring village of 
Longworth, Berks, where they had a burial-ground. In August, 1648, John Williams 
bought lands at Coate of Robert Haynes of Buckland. 

It should be mentioned that in the year 1634, several pious clergymen of the Church of 
England in Wales, were summoned before the Bishop of Landaff, by the instigation of 
Archbishop Laud and deprived of their benefices. Mr. Vavasor Powell of Brecknockshire with 
the vicar and curate of Cardiff were among the number. Mr. Powell, after he was silenced, 
itinerated through Wales and joined the Baptists. Roger Williams, founder of Rhode 
Island, in North America, who left Wales about the same time and for the same cause, 
is believed to have been another member of the family. He was born in 1599 and 
died in 1683 — In 1644 he received a charter from King Charles, whose son Charles II 
renewed it in 1663, giving him a promise under his own hand that " No person in 
Rhode Island should be molested or questioned for matters of conscience to God, if 
so be he was loyal and kept the peace " (Massachusetts Hist. Soc. Collections, I, 
275. 283.) 

John Williams, Missionary, martyred at Erromanga, and Sir James Williams, knight, 
Ex-Sheriff, were branches of this family. The following account of the former may 
be of interest to my readers : 

The Hevd. John Williams was the great grandson of Mr. James Williams of 
Southleigh, Yeoman, who was for 40 years a Beacon of the Baptist Church at Coate. 
He left England in 1816 as a missionary to the island of Raiatea, the largest of the Society 
Islands, under the auspices of the London Missionary Society. For twenty years he 
prosecuted his self-denying labours in the isles of the Pacific, 'with an amount of suc- 
cess not often realized. In audition to his stated labours in preaching and teaching 
the truths of the gospel, in establishing schools, in translating and printing the scrip- 
tures and elementary publications, his inventive mind enabled him to instruct the 
natives in improved modes of constructing their houses, in burning lime from their 
coral reefs, in erecting simple sugar mills, and even in the construction of a sloop of 
some 60 or 80 tons, in all which labours, like another Oberlin, Williams was the pioneer, 

working laboriously with his own hands. The perseverance which he displayed in 

overcoming the obstacles which arose from his want of tools, and the destruction of 
his only pair of bellows by the rats, are graphically described in his Missionary Enter- 
prizes, some 9 or 10 editions of which have been published. — His self-devotion and dis- 
interestedness at length had its due effect upon the minds of the natives ; animated 
with the zeal of the first Christians they abolished the superstitions of ages and 
brought the idols of their ancestors to their instructors to be committed to the 
flames. The Honourable Captain Waldegrave, of H. M. S. Seringapatam, and Lord 
Byron, captain of the Blonde, have borne honorable testimony to the proficiencey of these 
poor islanders in Scriptural knowledge, and declared that they had received answers to 
questions on religious subjects put by them, which most assuredly they never 
wonld have received at any provincial school in England. 

The ardour oi Williams's mind led him to confer the blessings of Evangelization on the 
Harvey group of islands especially to the island of Rarotonga. At these islands 
the gospel was received with eagerness. — From one island, where it had been pro- 
claimed, but where it was not possible to leave a missionary, a native visited Raro- 
tonga in an open canoe, (a voyage of 80 miles; to fetch, as he expressed it, a little 
religion, which he took home to his countrymen, and then returned for further instruc- 
tion. In the year 1838 Williams visited his native country, principally with the view 
of interesting the British public in his favourite scheme of evangelizing the different 
groups of the Pacific. His intelligent, simple, and manly appeals found a ready res- 
ponse in the hearts of thousands. Men of science and of commerce saw, in the pro- 
gress of Missions, the true basis of civilization and the advancement of knowledge. 
Many men of rank and affluence (and notably the duke of Devonshire) cheerfully aided 
the undertaking. 

Mr. Williams returned to Polynesia in a ship which had been presented to him, the 
" Camden," followed by the prayers and the sympathies of thousands. But shortly 
alter his return, in endeavouring to gain access to the island of Erromanga, one of 
the group of the New Hebrides, he was massacred by those whom he came to save ; 
in revenge, no doubt, for some long remembered cruelties indicted upon them by 
Europeans, who had formerly touched at their shorei. He died Nov. 20, 1839." B. W. 



ex HISTORY OF BAIUPTON. 

§ 29. Past history or Bampton chronqgically ar- 
ranged. 
The most ancient monument of antiquity remaining in the pa- 
rish of Bampton, is, no doubt, " Lew barrow," a mound about 15 
feet high and of proportional dimensions, standing on the highest 
point of the Lew lulls. The Barrow has been of late years 
planted with trees, and surrounded by a hedge, so that it would 
be difficult for a stranger to find it, and when found, the mass 
of foliage, with which it is thickly covered, deprives it of that- 
striking and impressive character, which all such grand and 
simple monuments, in their original state, possess. It is also 
for another reason to be lamented that this solitary record of the 
Ancient Britons, — for it is probably a chief of that nation who 
lies there entombed, — should be covered with a plantation. 
The yearly dilapidations of the young trees will more and more 
tend to deprive the mound of its original features, until they 
have arrived at maturity, when they will probably be felled and 
their roots be grubbed up, a process, which in all probability, 
will complete the destruction of the mound, which marks the 
ancient warrior's tomb. * 

Though there is no reason for disputing the tradition which 
gives a sepulchral origin to Lew barrow, I have not been able to 
ascertain that any Roman or British road passed through or 
near the parish of Bampton, though some of our antiquaries 
have endeavoured to prove that such was the case. 

* If these remarks should meet the eye of the proprietor of Lew Barrow, it may 
suggest for his consideration the propriety of removing the plantation, and of restor- 
ing Lew Barrow, as near as may be, to its original state. 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. cxi 

It is well known that the Romans had hardly gained a foot- 
ing in this island, before they began to make military roads or 
to re-model the existing roads of the Britons, so as to suit their 
own military purposes. These constructions were of two kinds • 
High-ways, vice vicinales, of which there were four, traversing 
the kingdom from one extremity to the other, and bye-ways, 
vim minores, which formed the communication between small 
towns and villages. The former were also denominated, Royal 
roads, region; Praetorian, prceton'ce ; Consular, consular es ; 
Privileged, privilegiatcB ; &c. according to particular circum- 
stances connected with them : the latter were also denominated 
"Vicinal, vicinales \ because they led from one hamlet fvicusj to 
another. 

In the third volume of Grose's antiquities I find the follow- 
ing account of the two principal Roman roads which passed 
through Oxfordshire. To save the reader the trouble of refer- 
ring to that work, I extract the passage, though I suspect that 
the Akeman Street passed too far to the north to have touched 
the parish of Bampton : 

"The Roman roads in this county are the Ikeneld Street 
and Akeman Street. The first enters Oxfordshire at Garinge- 
ford from Berkshire, and passes North-east, where it enters Buck- 
inghamshire. The Akeman Street was a consular way, enters 
from Buckinghamshire near Bicester, passes through Woodstock 
Park, and crossing the river Charwell, and Evanlode, enters 
Gloucestershire, South- West of Burford (it must therefore have 
run by or through Bampton). Another road is the remains of 
a vicinal way, called Gryme's Dyke., which enters this county 
from Berkshire, near Wallingford, crosses the Thames, and run. 
ning South-East, and crossing Ikeneld Street, passes the 
Thames a second time near Henlv, and re-enters Berkshire/' 



cxii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

It/ appears, then, that before the conquest of England by the 
Saxons, there are no notices, in history, of Bampton, and but 
one ancient monument winch can be said to belong to the 
preceding period. But soon after the country had submitted 
to the domination of the Saxons, we find this town mentioned 
as the scene of a bloody battle between the West-Saxons and 
the neighbouring Britons from Wales. The earliest mention 
of this occurrence is found in the work, commonly called the 
Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. 

The unlearned reader may require to be told that between 
the years 500 and 800 of the Christian sera England was 
divided into seven petty kingdoms. The county of Oxford lay 
between the kingdoms of Mercia and Wessex. This frontier- 
position of Oxfordshire occasioned it to be the scene of frequent 
battles between the Mercians and West-Saxons, in which the 
neighbouring Britons, from the western parts of Gloucestershire 
and Wales, frequently took part, assisting sometimes one party, 
sometimes the other, and not unfrequently fighting against 
them both. In the year 611 Cynegils became king of Wessex, 
and in the fourth year of his reign he was summoned to repel 
a large army of Welchmen who had invaded his dominions on 
the northern frontier. In this expedition he had the aid of 
his brave, but ferocious and blood-thirsty son, Cuichelm, who 
became king after him. The notice of this exploit is given 
with little regard to embellishment in the Saxon Chronicle. 

"A. D. 614. This year Cynegils and Cuichelm fought at 
Beamdune, and slew two thousand and sixty five Welshmen. " 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. cxiii 

This is all we know of a battle, which, if we may judge by 
the number of the slain, must have been an action of consider- 
able importance. It is not mentioned by Venerable Bede ; and 
some of the later Chroniclers, as Ethelwerd, Henry of Hun- 
tingdon, and Florence of Worcester, have either followed the 
words of the Old Chronicle, or varied and amplified them by 
unimportant additions.* 

I find in a work of littld authority called the British Travel- 
ler [4 vols 4to, London, 1819, v. IY, p. 63] the following state- 
ment, which, if it were true, would give us the next fact in 
chronological order, belonging to the history of Bampton. 

"At Bampton, in 682, a council is said to have been held 
by the kings Etheldred and Berthwald; at which Aldhelm, 
abbat of Malmesbury, being present, was commanded to write 
against the error of the British Church in the observance of 
Easter. >l 

It is certain that such a council was held about this time, 
and that Aldhelm, abbat of Malmesbury, was present at it, and 
it is extremely probable that the council was held in this neigh- 
bourhood, but that it was held at Bampton is more than I can 
venture positively to assert. 

Another statement, found in the same publication, however 
correct it may be in all other particulars, is certainly erroneous, 



* It is proper to mention that M. Camden lays the scene of this action at Beandun, now 
Bindonin Dosetshire, and Gibson, the commentator of the Saxon Chronicle, at Bampton 
in Devonshire, wtth which our Bampton is often confounded, even at the present day. 
But, if we consider the many conflicts in that age botween the Eritons and Saxons in 
these parts, and that the Britons were yet powerful here, before Mercia was brought un - 
der subjection to Penda, about 626 ; and that the West-Saxon kings had their frontier- 
garrison at Cirencester and Eynsham, frequently infested by the bordering Britons, it is 
much more probable that Bampton in Oxfordshire was the scene of the battle. To these 
conjectural reasons we may add the decisive testimony of the Polchronicon, in which, 
under the year 611, we read as follows: " Kinegilsus et Quichelmus multa strehue fece- 
runt contra Britones, potissime apud Bampton juxta Oxoniam. " 



cxiv HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

as far as regards the place where the facts are said to have hap- 
pened. The author, describing Bampton, writes thus : 

" On a spot still called the Battle Edge, Cathred, king of 
the West-Saxons, then tributary to the Mercians, incensed by 
the exactions of their king Ethelbald, hazarded an engagement 
with that prince. He was successful, and took from the enemy 
their standard, on which was the portraiture of a golden dra- 
gon. Plott says that within his own memory, the towns-people 
were accustomed annually to make a dragon, to which they 
added a giant, and both were carried through the street, with 
much parade and jollity, on Midsummer Eve/' 

In reply to this narrative we have the words of the Anglo- 
Saxon Chronicle, which, under the date A. D. 752, gives the 
following account. "This year Cuthrcd, king of the "West- 
Saxons, in the 12th year of his reign, fought at Burford against 
Ethelbald, king of the Mercians, and put him to flight." This 
was no doubt the battle fought at the place called Battle Edge, 
and Burford, not Bampton, the place referred to by the Author 
of the British Traveller. 

After this time the name of Bampton again merges into its 
originarobscurity until the reign of king Alfred, an interval 
of 350 years. This noble monarch, w r hom England will always 
place at the head of its truly great men, was born at Wantage 
in Berkshire, and passed great part of his life in that part of the 
kingdom. It is necessary here to speak only of his connexion 
with Bampton which derives its principal lustre from 
the arts of peace and civilization which it was his principal 
object to promote. We are not left to doubt that the river 
whose navigable stream winds between Bampton and the op- 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. cxv 

posite county of Berks, has been often covered with the 
slender ships and honoured by the presence of the patriot king. 
But when his fleets and arms had saved England from subjec- 
tion to her cruel foes, her sovereign endeavoured, by promoting 
learning and teaching his subjects the advantages of good 
government, to elevate the country which he had saved to a 
position among the civilized nations of Europe. To effect this 
object he not only patronized learning but became a learned 
man himself. He wrote works, which are still in existence, 
occupying many volumes, and to him is due the institution of 
many of our most useful laws. 

Sir Henry Spelman, in his life of this illustrious king, p. 127, 
has given an extract from a MS. formerly in the Cottonian 
library, containing " diverse precepts and instructions " of King 
Alfred, tending to inform and ameliorate his rude subjects. 
This MS probably perished in the fire which consumed many 
volumes of the Cottonian libray. The reader will find in the 
appendix to this volume all that remains of these sayings of 
King Alfred in the original Anglo-Saxon tongue, and I here 
subjoin a literal translation in English : 

At Shifford sat thanes many, 

Many bishops, and many book-learned [men], 

Earls wise and knights awful. 

There was ear! Alfric, of the law so wise, 

And eke Alfred, England's herd [,s-man], England's darling ; 

In England he was king ; them he began [to] learn, 

So him they might hear, how they their life should lead. 

Alfred, he was in England a king well so strong. 
He was king and clerk : well hs loved God's work. 
He was wise in his word, and wary in his speech. 



cxvi HISTORY OF BAMPTOX. 

He was the wisest man that was in England. 

Thus quoth Alfred England's darling : 
"Would ye now live and long after jour Lord ! 
And he would you [make to] know wise things, 
How you might world's worship obtain. 
And eke your souls unite to Christ ! " 
Wise were the quotations that said the king Alfred. 
Mildly I mind you, my dear friend, poor 
And easily loving, that ye all dread your 
Lord Christ, love him and like, for lie is 
Lord of life : he is one God over all goodness. 
He is one bliss over all blessedness. 
He is one man, mild master : he one folk's father [common 

father], 
And darling : he is one right vrise and rich king, 
That hirn not shall be pane naught of his will 
Who Him here in world worship and eth." 

Thus quoth Alfred, England's comfort. 
"He may no right king be under Christ's self, 
But [unless] he be book-learned, and wise of law, 
And he his writs well know, and he can 
Letters locen himself, how he shall his land 
Lawfully hold. 

Thus quoth Alfred, England's comfort : 
"The earl and the atheling too be under the king, 
The land to lead with lawful deed ; 
Both the clerk and the knight with evenly right. 
For after that the man soweth, 
Thereafter he moweth; 
And every man's doom to his own door cometh. 

Thus quoth Alfred : "The knight bekoveth 
Cunningly to mow for to weaiy [relieve] the land 
Of hunger, and of heregong, that the Church have 
Quiet and the churl [peasant] be in peace, 
His seeds to sow, his meads to mow, 
His ploughs to drive to our all behoof : 
This is the knight's law to look that it well fare. 

Here the original, copied by Spelman, terminates, and as the 

manuscript no longer exists, the reader must take the 

remainder in Spelman's irec translation. 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. cxvii 

Thus quoth Alfred : "Without wisdom wealth is worth 
little. Though a man had an hundred and seventy acres sown 
with gold, and all grew like corn, yet were all that wealth 
worth nothing, unless that of an Enemy one could make it 
become his friend. For what differs gold from a stone, but 
by discreet using of it ? " 

Thus quoth Alfred : " A young man must never give him- 
self to evil, though good befals him not to his mind, nor 
though he enjoys not every thing he would : for Christ can 
when he will give good after evil and wealth after grace. 
Happy is he that is made for it." 

Thus quoth Alfred : " A wise Child is the blessing of his 
father. If thou hast a child, while it is little, teach it the pre- 
cepts that belong to a man, and when it is grown up it will 
follow them ; then shall thy child become such as shall recom- 
pense thee : but if thou lettest him go after his own will, when 
he cometh to age it will grieve him sore, and he shall curse him 
that had the tuition of him : then shall thy child transgress 
thy admonition, and it would be better for thee that thou hadst 
no Child ; for a Child unborn is better than one unbeaten/'' 

Thus quoth Alfred : " If thou growestinto age, hast wealth, 
and canst take no pleasure, nor hast strength to govern thyself, 
then thank thy Lord for all that he hath sent thee, for thy own 
life, and for the day's light, and for all the pleasure he hath 
made for man ; and whatsoever becometh of thee, say thou, 
come what come will, be welcome." 

Thus quoth Alfred : " Worldly wealth at last cometh to the 
worms, and all the glory of it to dust, and our life is soon 
gone. And though one had the rule of all this middle world, 
and of the wealth in it ; yet could he keep his life but a short 
while. All thy Happiness would but work thy misery, un- 
less thou couldst purchase thee Christ. Therefore when we 
lead our lives as God hath taught us, we then best serve our- 
selves. Tor then be assured that he will support us : for so 
said Salomon, that wise man ; well is he that doth good in this 
world, for at last he cometh where he findeth it." 

Thus quoth Alfred : " My dear son, set thee now beside 
me, and I will deliver thee true Instructions. My son I feel 

that my hour is coming. My countenance is wan. My 

My days are almost done. We must now part. I shall to 
another world, and thou shalt be left aloue in all my wealth. 
I pray thee (for thou art my clear child) strive to be a Father, 
and a Lord to thy people, be thou the children's Father and 

Q 



cxviii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

the widow's friend, comfort thou the poor and shelter the 
weak; and with all thy might, light that which is wrong. 
And, son, govern thyself by law, then shall the Lord love 
thee, and God above all things shall be thy Reward. Call 
thou upon him to advise thee in all thy need, and so he 
shall help thee the better to compass that which thou would st." 

In remembrance of king Alfred's parliament at Shifford we 
may adduce the testimony of long-lived tradition : the rising 
ground, in which the little church stands, is still called the 
(< Court-close/' and is well adapted for holding a large assem- 
bly of people : The " king's-way " field, close to Aston, derives 
its name, probably, from the presence of the king. It may 
also be mentioned that ruins, apparently of a burial-ground, 
lying between the present church and the river, attest that Shif- 
ford was a more considerable place than it is at present. 

.From the death of King Alfred in 900 till the year 1 046, the 
history of Bampton is again lost in obscurity, from which it 
emerges at the time when Edward the Confessor was king 
of England, — a man who w r ould have been a credit to a society 
of monks, but, as a king, was the first cause of all the calami- 
ties which his people afterwards endured. The chaplain to this 
prince was Leofric, who, upon the union of the two bishoprics 
of Crediton and St. German's (the bishopric of Comwall)in 1046* 
and the removal of them to Exeter, became the first bishop of 
that see, and gave to his newly founded cathedral-church at 
Exeter his land at Bampton, which after the lapse of eight cen- 
turies, notwithstanding all the violent religious and political 
convulsions which have arisen during that period, the Dean and 
chapter of Exeter still retain in their possession. Eor the most 
complete account of Leofric, see Godwin, vol. 1, p. 300. 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. cxix 

In the Appendix will be found the charter by which the 
church of Exeter still holds its property in Bampton : it is co- 
pied out of a book preserved in the Bodleian library^ which 
was also given by Leofric to the church at Exeter. 

A. D. 1086. At this time Domesday-book was written, by 
order of William the Conqueror. Bampton is therein men- 
tioned in the following manner : 

" The King holds Benton (Bampton). There are twenty se- 
ven hides and a half. In the domain are 6 waggons and 
6 slaves and 40 villains and 17 husbandmen, and 13 Cot- 
tagers (bordarii) holders of Bord-land, have 16 waggons. In 
the time of king Edward they had £6 waggons.- 

There are four mills of 25s. Erom the fisheries they have 
20 shillings. Erom the meadows 65 shillings. Erom the 
market 50 shillings. Erom the pannage and salt-works of 
Wic and other customary payments, £ 9. 13s. Erom the year's 
produce £ 15. The soke of two Hundreds belongs to this 
Manor. 

In the whole it pays by the year 80 pounds and forty Shil- 
lings by the tale. 

Ilbert of Lacy holds half a hide by the gift of the Bishop of 
Bayeux ; and Walter, son of Ponz, holds a certain small por- 
tion of land; and Henry de Eerrars holds a certain Wood, 
whish Bundy the Eorester had. The County affirms that all 
this belongs to the King 

The Bishop of Exeter holds of the king six hides in Benton, 
(Bampton,) and Eobert of him. Bishop Levric (Leofric) held 
it. The land is of six ploughs. Now in the domain are two 
ploughs and two slaves and ten villains with seven Cottagers. 
They have three ploughs. In that place are two fisheries 
of thirty-three Shillings, and forty Acres of Meadow." 

A. D. 1152, March 14 — The date of a bull issued by 
Pope Eugenius, confirming the possessions of the church of 
Exeter. Bampton is therein described as a church divided 
into two prebends by the then Bishop of Exeter, Robert Chic- 
hester — " ut videlicet, si ecclesia ilia de Bentune in melio- 



«xx HISTORY OF BAMPTOK. 

rem statum temporis processu devenerit, sexaginta solidi ex- 
inde, si superfuerint, fratrum communioni proveniant." 

A. D. 1218. This year, according to "White Kennet, in 
his Parochial Antiquities, page 187, in the sheriffs accounts, 
Eeginald, earl of Boulogne, answered for lands at Bampton. 

A. D. 1249, March 10, being the 8th of Edward II. The 
date of the Charter by which Aylmer de Yalence, earl of Pem- 
broke " obtained a license from the king to make a castle 
of his house at Bampton. - " These are the words of White 
Kennet, in his Parochial Antiquities, [p 886], but he re- 
fers to no authority. Yet the ruins still existing are in direct 
harmony with this statement, being certainly not more ancient 
than the date here assigned. 

A. D. 1321. This year is memorable for the civil wars which 
raged between the king Edward II, and his barons. The 
dissension had begun the year before, but some hopes of a 
reconciliation still remained : winch however were soon de- 
stroyed. The cause of the war being renewed is told us 
by Geoffery le Baker a native of Swinbroke, * and after- 
wards a monk in Oseney abbey. " In the year 1321 the 
lady, Queen Isabella, about the feast of Saint Michael, came 
to the Castle of Leeds in Kent, wishing to spend the night 
there, but admittance was denied her. The king, construing 
the queen's repulse into an affront upon himself, commanded 
the neighbouring people, with the men of Essex and some 
Londoners, to besiege the castle. The governor of the for- 

•Galfridi 1c Baker de Swinbrcke Chronicou, edid. J. A. Giles, Lond. 8vo> 1846, 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. cxxi 

tress, B. de Baddesmere, leaving his wife and children in the 
castle, with his servants to defend it, set out with the other 
barons to plunder the property of Hugh" le De Spencer, the 
king's favourite. The king meanwhile reduced the castle 
and spent the following Christmas-day at Cirencester, from 
whence he marched with his army towards Gloucester. Mean- 
while the earl of Lancaster was at the head of another 
army at Bampton. During these fatal heats, there were so- 
lemn justs performed at Witney, between Humphrey Bohun, 
earl of Hereford, and Aylmer de Valence, earl of Pembroke. 

A. D. 1329. Eobert de Elford [probably Yelford near 
Bampton] at this time held a tenement at Aston on the condi- 
tion of " serving with a bow and arrows or some other kind of 
arms in any war of our lord the king, within his kingdom, for 
the space of 40 days, at his own proper cost." [See Appen- 
dix, p. 16, last line; and Aslimol. MS. 863, p. 71]. 

A. D. 1387. Date of the battle of Radcot-Bridge. 

" The river Isis is crossed, three miles to the south-west of 
Bampton, by Eadcot Bridge, an ancient structure of three 
arches. In consequence of a cut, made in 1787, for the im- 
provement of the navigation, the stream, which flows through, 
is now deserted by traffic, but the neighbourhood possesses much 
picturesque beauty. In this vicinage, a conflict took place, in 
the reign of Richard II, between Robert de Yere, earl of Ox- 
ford, and several of the nobility who envied his favour with the 
crown. The Earl was vanquished, but saved his life by plung- 
ing into the stream, and swimming to the opposite bank. He 
escaped to the continent, but died, three years afterwards, in 
Lorraine, by a wound received from a boar in the chase. His 
corpse was conveyed to England, and interred at the priory of 
Colne in Essex, which structure had been founded by his ances- 
tor, Alberic, the first earl. The king attended the funeral 
in person; and his monument is still extant, enriched with 



cxxii HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

the effigies of himself and wife." [British Trav. vol IV, p. 63.] 

A. D. 1400. In this year, which ended the reign of Ri- 
hard II, and began that of his successor Henry IY, the 
men of Wantage, Earingdon, Barapton, and no doubt of 
Shifford also, which belonged to Henry's family, rose in fa- 
vour of Henry and defeated the earl of Salisbury and other 
partisans of king Richard at Cirencester [Ryiner, Merks's 
pardon, Nov. 28, 1400, and Chronicque de la traison de 
Richart, &c. par B. Williams, Lond. 1841, p. 241]. 

A. D. 1443. Edmund Wallewayn held a tenement at Aston, 
half a yard-land, two acres of meadow, and two of pasture, 
&c, also a messuage at Cote, one yard-land, three acres of 
meadow, three of pasture, &c, also at Lewe, one yard-land. 
[Inquisitiones post mortem, IV, 217]. 

A. D. 1540. To this year belongs the following notice of 
Shapp, alias Heppe abbey, in the county of Westmoreland, 
from a Roll, 32nd of Henry VIII, preserved in the Augmenta- 
tion office and quoted in Dugdale's Monasticon, vol. VI, 
page 840: 

" Computus ministrorum domini regis temp. Hen. VIII. 

Shappe nuper Monasterium. Com. Westm [orland.] 

[among many other places] Carhullen in Bampton, reddit. et 
firm. ten. £4. 17s. 4d." 

A. D. 1543. This year the manors and property belonging 
to the abbey of Ensham were granted by King Henry VIII to 
Edward lord North. [See Appendix, No XIV.] 



* Kennett's Parochial Antiquities, page. 385— Quoted from Leland's Collectanea, 
tome I, p. 328. 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON. cxxin 

A. D. 1567. Sir Thomas Chamberlayne is said to have 
been lord of the manor of Bampton at this time. He pos- 
sessed a MS. from which Dr. Plott gave an account of 
different tolls from winch Shifford was exempt. [See Plott's 

Hist, of Oxon.] 

A. D. 1642. "In most parts of England, skirmishes, 
assaults and salleys were so frequent and so tierce, that all 
people now dreaded and felt the deplorable effects of a civil 
war/ 5 [Echard's Hist, of Eng. II, 371]. 

A. D. 1646. About this date a battle was fought in Aston - 
field, between the king's party and the republicans. Perhaps 
the two square entrenchments, which still appear on the open 
field between Ten-foot and the Isle of W ight, were thrown up 
at this time : but I can find no written record either of them 
or of the battle. 

A. D. 1664. This year the celebrated antiquary, Antony 
Wood, paid a visit to Bampton. "We learn this fact from his 
own diary, which was published by Hearne in a work contain- 
ing the biographies of the three antiquaries, Leland, Hearne, and 
Wood. At page 192 of the second volume of that book we 
find the following memorandum : 

" At Northmore with Mi. Pet. Nicolls, where we were enter- 
tained by Mr. Twyford. Thence wee went to Bampton, where 
wee lodged one night in the house of Mr. Tho. Cook, one of 
the vicars. The next morning very early I went to the castle, 
neare the church there, and took the ruins thereof, and so re- 
turned to Oxon." 

This sketch of the castle is still preserved among the papers 
of Ant. Wood in the Ashmolean Museum at Oxford, No. 8505. 
It is very rudely drawn and in the present daj would be thought 



cxxiv HISTORY OF BAMPTON. 

a most contemptible performance, even for an amateur : yet it 
nevertheless furnishes sufficient data upon which, with the as- 
sistance of the existing ruins, a plan of the west front of the 
castle might be constructed with tolerable accuracy. 

A. D. 1677. Dr. Plott's History of Oxfordshire was publish- 
ed this year, bearing the following title : 

" The Natural History of Oxfordshire, being an essay to- 
ward the Natural History of England. By E. P[lott]. 
LL. D. Printed at the Theater in Oxford, and are to be 
had there: And in London at Mr. S. Miller's, at the Star 
near the West-end of St, Paul's Church-yard. 1577. The 
price in sheets at the press, nine shillings. To subscribers, 
eight shillings." 

A. D. 1700. In the Eawlinson MS., which was written about 
this time, I find the following passage, which gives the state 
of the manors, &c. about this date. 

" Lords of the manor and hundred of Bampton, George 

Talbot earl of Shrewsbury (his elder brother being a 

abroad) and William Coventry esq. — present vicars, 1. Mr. 
John Edmonds, M. A. St. John's coll. Camb. 2. Mr. Thomas 
Snell, M. A. fellow of Ex. Coll. Oxf. — The Dean and Chap- 
ter of Exeter have a manor here and at Chimney, leased at 
about £ 600 per an. by Mr. Veisey, and £300 more by Mrs. 
Crofts. — Lord of the manor of Shifford is Tho. Slatter, alias 

Bacon j it was purchased of Sonibank Yesey Lord of the 

manor of Aston and Coate, Alan Horde esq. — Weald belongs 
to Shrewsbury and Coventry. Haddon belongs to Sir Eob. 
Throckmorton. Lew belongs to Shrewsbury and Coventry" 
Church dedicated to St. Peter. "The parsonage or glebe-land 
without any tithes, is lett by the dean and chapter of Exeter to 
Mr. John Dew at 8 score pounds p. an., renewable every 7th 
year in a lease of 21 years. The dean and chapter of Exeter 
have the tithes of the several farms, now lett out to the Eev. 
Mr. Wine of Kingston, in value about 150 lib. p. an., of 
which 20 p. an. is let to Mr. Nabbs." 



AFFXHDIX 

OE ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS, &c. 



I. KING ALFRED'S PARLIAMENT AT SHIFFORD, A. D. 890. 

From an ancient Anglo-Saxon Manuscript, formerly in the Cottonian library, and quoted by Spelman 
in bis Life of Alfred; but now supposed to be lost, 

At Sifford seten thaines manie, 
Fele biscopes, and fele boclered, 
Erles prude, cnihtes egloclie. 
There was erle Alfric, of the lage swuth wise ; 
And ec Alfred, Engle-hirde, Engle-derling, 
On Engelond he was king : hem he gan leren 
Swo hi heren mihten, hu hi here lif leden scolden. 

Alfred he was ""on Engelond a king wel swithe stroDg ; 
He was king and clerk : wel he luvede God's werk : 
He was wise on his word, and war on his speche : 
He was the wisest man that was on Engelond. 

Thus qwath Alverd, Engle frofre, 

" Wolde ye nu lib en and lusten yure louerd,- 

And he yu wolde wisen wiseliche thinges, 

Hu ye mihten werlds wurthscipe welden, 

And ec yure soule samne to Criste." 

Wise weren the cwethen the saide the king Alfred ! 

" Mildeliche I mime yu, mine dere frend, aime 
And edilede luviende, that ye all drede yure 
Drihten Crist, luviend him and licen ; for he is 
Louerd of Life ; he is one God over all godnesse ; 
He is one blisse over alle blessedness ; 
He is one manne, milde maister ; he one folce fader, 
And trofie : he is one riht wis and riche king, 
That him ne seal be pane noht of his will 
Hwo him here on werlde wurthend and eth," 

1 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON, 

Thus cwalh Alvred, Engle frofre, 
" He mai no riht cing ben under Crist self, 
But he be boclered, and wis o loage, 
And lie hise writes wel icweme, and he cunne 
Letres locen himselve hu he seal his loud 
Lagelice helden." 

Thus cwath Alvred, Engle frofre : " The erl 

And the atheling tho ben under the cing, 

The lond to leden mid lagelic deden. 

Bothe the clerc and the cniht demen evenliche riht : 

For after that te man soweth, 

Therafter he seal mowen ; 

And elfrilces mannes dom to his ogen dure charigeth." 

Thus cwath Alvred, " The cniht behoveth 
Ceneliche to mowen vor to werie the lond 
Of hunger, and of heregoug, 

That the Chureche have grith, and te cherl be in frith, 
His sedes to so wen, hise medes to mowen, 
His plowes to driven to ure aire bilif. 
This is the cnihtes lage, to locen that it wel fare, &c. 



II. CHARTER OF LEOFRIC TO THE CHURCH OF EXETER. 

A. D. 1046. 

From an ancient MS. presen r ed in the Bodleian library [Auctarium, D, 2, 16.] 

Her swutelath on thissere Christes bee hwaet Leofric bishop haefth gedon innto 
sancte Petres minstre on Exanceastre ; thaer his biscopstol is, ther is ther he haefth 
geinnod ther aer geutod waes thurh Godes fultum and thurh his forespraece and 
thurh his gaersuma. ther is aerost ther land aet Culmstoke, and ther land sat Bran- 
cescumbe, and aet Sealtcumbe, and ther land set sancte Maria circean, and ther 
land aet Stofordtune, and aet Swearcanwille, and ther land aet Morceshille, and 
Sidefullan hiwisc, and ther land aet Brihtricesstane, and ther land ast Toppes- 
hamme, theah the Harold hit mid milage ut nam, and ther land set Stoke, and 
ther land aet Sydebirig, and ther land aet Niwantune, and aet Northtune, and ther 
land aet Clist the wid haefde. Thonne ys this se eaca on landum the he haefth of 
his agenum ther minster midgegodod for his hlaforda sawlum, and for his ag- 
enre. tham Godes theowum to bigleofan the for heora sawlum thingian sceolon. 
ther ys aerost ther land aet BEMTUNE, and aet ESTTUNE, and aet Ceommenige, 
and ther land aet Doflisc, and aet Holacumbe, and aet Suthwuda, and he nefun- 



APPENDIX, NO II. O 

de tha he to tham minstre feng nan mare landes the thider ynn gewylde waere. 
thonne twa hida landes aet Ide, and thseron nses orf cynnes nan mare buton 
VII hrutheru. Thonne ys this seo oncnawennis the he haefth God mid gecnawen 
and sanctum Petrum into tham halgan minstre on circlicum madmum ther is ther 
he haefth thider ynn gedon II b. roda, and II mycele gebonede roda bntan oth- 
rum litlum silfrenum swur rodum and II mycele Chris tes bee gebonede, and III 
gebonede serin, and I geboned altare, and V silfrene caliceas, and IV corpora- 
les, and I silfren pipe, and V fulle maessereaf, and II dalmatica, and III pistel- 
roccas, and IV subdiacones handlin,and III cantercaeppa,and III canterstafas,and 
V psellene weofod sceatas, and VII of braedelsas, and II tseppedu, and III bera 
scin and VII setl hraegel and Illricg-hraegel, and II wahreft,and VI maesene-sceala, 
and II gebonede hii8eppas,andIVhornas, and II mycele gebonede candlesticcan, and 
Vlleessan candelsticcan gebonede,and I silfren stor-cylle mid silfrenum stor-sticcan, 
and VIII laeflas, and II guthfana, and I mere [forte mere], and VI mid reca, and I 
firdwsen, and I cyste, and thasrnaeron aer buton VII upphangene bella, and nu thaer 
sind XIII upphangene, and XII handbella and II fulle maesse-bec, and I collec- 
taneum, and II pistel-bec, and II fulle sang-bec, and I niht-sang, and I Ad te 
levavi, and I tropere, and II salteras, and se thriddan saltere swa man singth on 
Rome, and II ymneras, and I deorwyrthe bletsing-boc, and III othre, and I 
Englisc Christes hoc, and II sumer raeding-boc, and I winter raeding-boc, and 
Regula canonicorum, and Martyrologium, and I canon on leden, and I scrift 
boc on Englisc, and I full spell boc, wintres and sumeres, and Boeties hoc on 
Englisa, and I mycel Englisc boc; be gehwilcum thingum on leoth wiran ge- 
worht, and he nefunde on tham mynstre tha he to feng boca na ma buton 
ane capitularie, and I for ealdodne nihtsang, and I pistel boc, and II for eal- 
dode raeding bee swithe wake, and I wac maessereaf. And thur fela leden 
boca he beget inn to tham mynstre liber pastoralis, and liber dialogorum, and 
libri IV prophetarum, and liber Boetii de consolatione, and Isagoge Porphyrii, 
and I passionalis, and liber Prosperi, aud liber Prudentii Physomachiae, and 
liber Prudentii hymnorum, and liber Prudentii de martyribus, and liber Eze- 
chielis prophetae, and Cantica Canticorum, and liber Isaise prophetae on sun- 
dron, and liber Isidori etymologiarum, and passiones apostolorum, and ex- 
positio Bedae super evangelium Lucae, and expositio Bedae super Apocalypsim, 
and expositio Bedae super VII epistolas canonicas, and liber Isidori de novo 
et veteri testamento, and liber Isidori de miraeulis Christi, and liber Oserii, and 
liber Machabeorum, and liber Persii, aud Sedulies boc, and liber Aratoris, and 
diadema monachorum, and Glosae Statii, and liber officialis Amalarii. 

And ofer his daeg he ann his capellan thider binnan forth mid him silfam 
on eallum tham thingum the he silf dide mid Godes theninge on ther gerad 
ther tha Godes theowas the thaer binnan beoth aefre his sawle gemunon mid 
heora gebedum and maesse-sangum to Christe and to sancte Petre and to 
eallum tham halgum the ther halige minister is fore gehalgod ther his sawle 
beo gode the anfengre, and se the thas gyfu, and thisne unnan wille Gode, and 
sancte Petre aet Bredan si him heofena rice aetbroden, and si he ecelice genitherod 
into helle wite. 



HISTORY OF BAMPTON, 



III. SURVEY OF BAMPTON, A. D. 1086. 

From Domesday Book, written in the reign of William the Conqueror and preserved in the chap- 
ter-house at Westminster. This valuable record has been printed by the Commissioners in 5 vols 
folio but with abbreviations, as in the Original ; which makes it difficult to read : that the ex- 
tract may be more perspicuous and intelligible, it is here printed without abbreviation^ 

[DOMESDAY BOOK, THE PRINTED EDITION.. VOL. I, P. 154]. 

Rex tenet BENTONE : ibi sunt XXVII hidae et dimidia. In dominio sunt 
VI carrae, et VI servi, etXL villani, et XVII buri, etXIIIbordarii : habent XVI 
carras : tempore Regis Edwardi habebant XXVI carras. 

Ibi quatuor molini [molinse], XXV solidorum. De piscariis XX solidos ; de 
pratis LXV solidos ; de mercato L solidos ; de pasnagio et salinis de "VVic et aliis 
consuetudinibus hominum IX libras et XIII solidos ; de annona anni XV libras. 
Soca duorum hundredorum pertinet huic manerio. 

Inter totum reddit per annum quatuor XX libras et XL solidos ad nume- 
rum. 

Dimidium hidae tenet Ilbertus de Laci, dono Episcopi Baiocensis : et Walterus 
Alius Ponz tenet quandam particulam terras ; et Henricus de Fereires tenet quan- 
dam silvam, quam tenuit Bundi forestarius. 

Hoc totum testatur comitatus pertinere ad dominium regis. 

[also vol i, page 155, no. v.] 
Terra episcopi de execestre. 
Episcopus Exoniensis tenet de rege VI hidas in BENTONE, et Robertus de eo : 
Leuric episcopus tenuit. Terra est V carrarum ; nunc in dominio duae carras, et 
duo servi ; et X villani cum VII bordariis. Habent VII carras. Ibi II piscaria? 
de XXXIII solidis, et XLVIII acreas prati. Tempore regis Edwardi, valebant 
IV libris, modo VI libris. 



IV. CHARTER OF KING HENRY III, DATED MARCH 10, 1249, 
GRANTING THE MANOR OF BAMPTON TO WILLIAM 
DE VALENCE. 

Among the Records in the custody of the Master of the Rolls, pursuant to Stat. 1 and 2 Vict., 
cap. 94, and preserved in the Tower of London ; to wit, Charter-roll of the 33rd year of the reign 
of king Henry the Third, memb : 5, it is thus contained : 

nu D ™. T>r»/^ wrT Rex archiepiscopis, &c. salutem, Sciatis nos ded- 
L/HAK1A rKU \V LLi- . , , , n 

TTFTATO DF VAT- lsse > concessisse, et hac cnarta nostra connrmasse, 

ENTIA. dilecto fratri et fideli nostro, Willielmo de Valentia, 

totum manerium nostrum de BAMPTON, cum hun- 

dredo, dominicis, hoinagiis, reditibus, villenagiis, et omnibus aliis pertinentiis suis 



APPENDIX, NO V. 1 

sine aliquo retinemento, exceptis terris cum pertinentiis quas prius dederamus Hu- 
berto Pugeys in eodem manerio pro triginta libratis terrae, cujus servitium et 
homagium dedimus eidem Willielmo, una cum custodia, terrae et haeredum 
ipsius Huberti, post mortem suam, habendum et tenendum eidem Wiliielmo et 
haeredibus suis de uxore sua procreatis, bene et in pace, quiete et integre cum om- 
nibus libertatibus et liberis consuetudinibus ad eandem terrain pertinentibus, pro 
triginta et septem libratis terrse in partem satisfactions quingentarum libratarum 
terra?, quas ei per chartam nostram dare concessimus. Ita quod tantum decidat 
de quingentis libris, quas annuatim percipit, ad Scaccarium nostrum, faciendo inde 
nobis et haeredibus nostris servitia inde debita et consueta. Ita quod si forte nos 
vel haeredes nostri praedictam terram reddere voluerimus rectis haeredibus per 
voluntatem nostram vel per pacem, non disseisiemus prsedictum Willielmum vel 
haeredes suos de uxore sua procreates, nee disseisiri faciemus, de praedicta terra, 
donee eis rationabile fecerimus exchambium ad valentiam praedictae terras. 
Quare volumus et firmiter praecipimus pro nobis et haeredibus nostris quod prae- 
dictus Willielmus et haeredes sui de uxore sua procreati habeant et teneant totum 
praedictum Manerium de BAMPTON cum Hundredo, dominiis, homagiis, redi- 
tibus, villenagiis et omnibus aliis pertinentiis suis, sine aliquo retinemento, excep- 
tis terris cum pertinentiis r quas prius dederamus Huberto Pugeys in eodem Mane- 
rio pro triginta libratis terrae, cujus servitium et homagium dedimus eidem Wil- 
lielmo una cum custodia terrae et haeredum ipsius Hubeiti post mortem suam, bene 
et in pace, qaiete et integre, cum omnibus libertatibus et liberis consuetudinibus ad 
eandem terram pertinentibus, pro triginta et septem libratis terrae in partem satis- 
factionis quingentarum libratarum terrae, quas ei per chartam nostram dare con- 
cessimus. Ita quod tantum decidat de quingentis libris, quas annuatim percipit, 
ad Scaccarium nostrum, faciendo inde nobis et haeredibus nostris servitia inde 
debita et consueta. Ita quod si forte nos vel haeredes nostri praedictam terram 
reddere voluerimus rectis haeredibus, per voluntatem nostram vel per pacem, non 
disseisiemus praedictum Willielmum vel haeredes suos de uxore sua procreatos, nee 
disseisiri faciemus, de praedicta terra, donee eis rationabile fecerimus exchambium 
ad valentiam praedictae terrae, sicut praedictum est. 

His Testibus Venerabili Patre F. Londinensi Episcopo, Willielmo de Fortibus 
comite Albemarliae, Johanne Maunsel praeposito Beverlaci, Radulpho filio Nicho- 
lai, Roberto Passelewe, Archidiacono Lewensi, Galfrido de Langele, Willielmo 
de Bello-monte, Willielmo Gernun, et aliis. Data per manum nostram apud West- 
monasterium Xo die Martii. 

V. INQUISITION: COPY OF THE HUNDRED-ROLL OF 
BAMPTON AND ASTON, 3rd EDW. I. [A. D. 1274-5]. 

From the Rolls in the Tower. 

HUNDREDUM DE Inquisitio facta coram domino Sampsone Foliotte, 
BAMPTON. domino Fulcon de Ruycote, et sociis secum electis, 

anno regis Edwardi septimo, et duodecim juratis, vide- 
licet domino Johanne Maudut, domino Maria de Batille, domino Alano de 



8 HISTORY OF BAMPTON, 






Craule, Roberto de Eleford, Roberto le Paumer de Welde, Ricardo de Hanton, 
Stephano Frankeland de Welde, Henrico de Heupteseye, Radulfo de Fileking, 
Roberto de Stoke, Nicholao Biron de Clanefend, et Johanne de Fifhyde, super 
articulis a praedictis justitiis, praedictis duodecim deliberatis, scilicet inquirere 
oportet &c. 

Qui dicunt super sacramentum, quod dominus Willelmus 
BAMPTON de Valentia tenet in Bampton duas carucatas terrae de domi- 
no rege in capite,et unam carucatam terrae quam habuit de 
Johanne filio Paulini : et idem Johannes tenuit dictam carucatam terrae de domi- 
nico domini regis : et habet libertatem et liberum hundredum forinsecus, ita quod 
habebit returnum omnium brevium domini regis quae vicecomiti diriguntur et 
quae libertatem illam consuevit : et habet mercatum et feriam : et habuit prae- 
dictum tenementum de dono Henrici regis, patris Edwardi regis qui nunc 
est, cum omnibus libertatibus praenominatis ; sed ignorant quo servitio nee quo 
warranto. 

Dominus Robertus Pogeys tenet in Bampton, in dominico, ut 

BAMPTON in dominico, unam carucatam terrae de domino Willelmo de 

POGEYS Valentia, et reddit eidem per annum octodecim denarios vel 

unum ensem, et idem Willielmus tenet de domino rege in ca- 

pite ; habet etiam libertatem visi franciplegii de hominibus suis ; et homines sui 

debent apparere in curia domini Willelmi de Valencia, ad proximam curiam 

post festum sancti Michaelis sine occasione. 

Item idem Robertus habet in eadem unam carucatam terrae de perquisi- 
tione de diversis, videlicet 40 acreas de domino Milone de Hasting : et idem 
Milo tenuit de Benedicto de Blachum et idem de domino rege : item dimi- 
dium virgatae terrae de Johanne Paulino et idem de domino Willelmo de Va- 
lance, et idem Willelmus de domino rege in capite. 

Ricardus Wolwy tenet in Aston unum messuagium, et unam 
ASTON virgatam terrae de domino Roberto Pogeys, et reddit per 

SERVITIA annum eidem pro reuitu 4 solidos et 4 denarios, ob : 
pro opere et servitio 8 solidos et 6 denarios quae quia 
taxantur. 

Willelmus Wolwy, Robertus Bobbe, Ricardus le Paumer, Thomas Balwithe, 
Willielmus Orchard, cum Waltero Martin, Johannes Hemming, Engelys relicta 
Johannis Gilberti, Emma Stephanu., Ricardus Ayline, Matilda de la Garstou, 
Willelmus de la Barre, Ricardus Hogenon, Matilda de Me, Walterius North, 
Isabella Lunett, Rogerus Midewinter, Walterus Ernald, Willelmus North, Hugo 
Halyday, Walterus Halyday, Rogerus Bolebebs, Willielmus King, cum Roberto 
Sefoul, Ricardus Ketse, Agnas Faber, Willelmus Newman, Hugo Bulbebs, Hugo 
Jurdan, quilibet praescriptorum tenet consimile tenementum in Aston de 
dicto Roberto Pogeys pro consimili servitio, sicut Ricardus Wolwy prae- 
scriptus. 

Ricardus Saleman tenet in eodem UDum messuagium, et unam virgatam 
terrae, de eodem, et reddit per annum eidem 5 solidos et 5 denarios pro red- 
itu ; pro opere et servitio 7 solidos et 9 denarios, ob quae &c. 



APPENDIX, NO VI. 9 

Willelmus Jurdan, Philippus Orchard, Rogerus Lete, Walterius Edwich, 
Willelmus a la freyne, Thomas Piscator, Rogerus Dod, cum Rogero French, 
Thomas de la Cote, quilibet praescriptorum tenet consimile tenementum in 
Aston de eodem pro consimili servitio faciendo eidem, sicut Ricardus 
Saleman. 

Robertus de la Cote tenet in eadem unum messuagium et unam virgatam 
terrae de eodem et reddit per annum eidem 4 solidos, ob. 

Willelmus de la Cote tenet in eodem unum messuagium, et unam virgatam 
terrae, de eodem, et reddit per annum eidem 4 solidos, ob. 

Matilda relicta Carectarum, tenet in eodem unum messuagium et dimidium 
virgatae terrae de eodem, et reddit per annum eidem pro reditu 4 solidos et 5 
denarios pro opere praedicto, ob quae quia taxantur. 

Abbas Eygn[shamiensis] tenet in Aston unum messuagium 
LIERI et unam virgatam terrae de Roberto Pogeys, et reddit per 

TENENTES annum domino Roberto Pogeys 5 solidos et 2 dena- 
rios. 
Idem abbas tenet unam virgatam terrae in puram et perpetuam eleemosynam ; 
unde, nescimus quo warranto. 

Rogerus Doyly tenet in villa de Bampton 4 carucatas terrae, 

BAMPTON in dominico, de domino Hugone de Plec. et idem Hugo de 

domino rege in capite, et debet scutagium et habet liberam 

piscaturam in tribus gurgitibus : et habet in bosco quae vocatur Boynale, hus- 

bote et heybote. 



VI. PLEAS OF ASSIZE HELD AT OXFORD, IN THE 13th YEAR 
OF EDWARD I, [A. D. 1285]. 

From the Rolls at Carlton Ride. 

Placita de juratis et assizis coram Salomone de Roffs, Eicardo de 
Boylund, Roberto Fulcon, Galfrido de Picheford et Rogero Loveday, 
justiciariis itinerantibus apud Oxford in crastino Sancti Hilarii, anno 
regni regis Edwardi tertiodecimo. Eulcon. 

ROTULO II. 

Placita domini regis apud Oxoniam Fulcon. 

Willelmus de Valentia summonitus fuit ad respondendum domino regi, quo 
warranto clamat habere returnum brevium, placitum de namio vetito, furcam, 
et emendum assise panis et cervisiae factae in Bampton, quae ad coronam et 
dignitatem suam pertinent et debentur. 



10 HISTORY OF BAMPTON, 

Et Willielmus venit, et dicit, quod dominus Henricus rex, pater domini 
regis nunc, dedit ei manerium cum hundredo, et cum omnibus libertatibus ad 
ea pertinentibus, ad qua? manerium, et hundredum, furca et emend, assise panis et 
cervisise facta? pertinent per praedictam chartam quam profert, et qua? hoc testatur, 
et quoad retornum brevium et placitum de namio vetito, dicit quod quidam comes 
Bononiensis tenuit praedictum manerium cum hundredo de domino Henrico rege, 
patre domini regis nunc, et dicit quod eo tempore quo idem comes tenuit mane- 
rium praedictum cum hundredo, habuit retornum brevium et tenuit placitum de 
namio vetito, tan quam pertinentia ad hundredum praedictum : et postea prae- 
dicta manerium et hundredum devenerunt ad manus ipsius domini Henrici re- 
gis tanquam escaeta sua : idem dominus Henricus rex, eo tempore quo ea tenuit in 
manu sua, tenuit placitum de namio vetito et habuit retornum brevium in eisdem, 
tanquam ad eadem manerium et hundredum pertinentia : et idem dominus 
Henricus rex postmodum manerium et hundredum cum pertinentiis eidem 
Willelmo dedit et concessit, tenendum sibi et heredibus suis de uxore sua 
procreatis, de ipso domino rege et heredibus suis, et profert chartam ipsius 
domini Henrici regis quae testator quod idem dominus Henricus rex dedit et 
concessit eidem Willelmo praedictum manerium cum hundredo, dominicis, 
homagiis, reditibus, villenagiis, et omnibus aliis pertinentiis, sine aliquo retine- 
mento, exceptis quibusdam terris quas prius dedit Huberto de Pugeys in eodem 
manerio, habendum et tenendum eidem Willelmo et haeredibus suis de uxore 
sua procreatis,bene,et in pace, quiete etintegre cum omnibus libertatibus etliberis 
consuetudinibus ad eadem pertinentibus, et dicit quod eo warranto habet ipse 
retornum brevium, et clamat habere placitum de namio vetito. 

Ex Willelmus de Giselham, quisequitur pro domino rege, dicit quod habere 
returnum brevium, et tenere placitum de namio vetito pertinet ad coronam 
et dignitatem domini regis, et quas libertates nemo clamare potest sine warranto 
speciali a domino rege vel antecessorum suorum, et dicit quod in praedicta charta, 
quam prasdictus Willelmus de Valentia profert, nulla fit mentio de aliquo retor- 
iio brevium vel placitorum de namio vetito. Uncle petit judicium pro domino 
rege. 



[ROTULO IX, IN DOR30.] 

De juratis et assisis apud Oxon. &c Fulcon. 

Willelmus de Valencia, Rogerius de Engepenne, Johannes le bedel de Bamp- 
ton, et llogerus de Weston, summoniti fuerunt ad responsum Ceciliae de Musce- 
gros, de placito quare praedicti Willelmus et alii averia ipsius Ceciliae ceperunt et 
injuste detintierunt et cur et unde queritur quod quum praedicti Willelmus et alii, 
die Sabbati proxima post festum Sancti Hilarii, anno regni regis nunc undecimo, 
ceperunt quatuor jumenta ipsius Ceciliae in villa de Alvescote et ea fugaverunt us- 
que ad manerium ipsius Willielmi de Bampton, et ea ibidem detinuerunt contra 
vadium et piegium, a praedicto die usque diem Veneris proximum ante festum 
Sancti Johannis ante portam Latinam, anno supradicto : quod deliberata fuerunt 



APPENDIX, NO VI. 11 

per breve domini regis ad damnum ipsius Cecilia? centum librarum et inde pro- 
duxit settam, &c. 

Et Willelmus per attornum suum venit et oranes alii venerunt et defendunt vim 
et cur et quando, &c. et bene cognoscunt quod ipsi ceperunt praedicta averia et 
juste, quia dicunt quod tenentes ipsius Ceciliae de Alvescote et Aston non vene- 
runt ad visum franciplegii ad curiam ipsius Ceciliae de Alvescote et Aston, ubi bal- 
livi dicti Willelmi de Valencia semel in anno post festum Sancti Michaelis tenere 
debent praedictum visum, amerciaverunt ipsi tenentes prasdicti Ceciliae pro defal- 
cationibus suis et ea ratione pro hujusmodi amerciamentis distringere fecit, per 
averia praedicta, et postea concordati sunt et praedicta Cecilia dat dimidium marcae 
pro licentia concordandi, et est concordia talis quod praedicti Willelmus et Cecilia 
bene cogn. quod ballivi ipsius Willelmi venire debent ad visum francipleg. tenend. 
de tenentibus ipsius Ceciliae de Alvescote et Aston semel in anno, scilicet post 
festum Sancti Michaelis, et quod ballivi ipsius Willelmi habere debent pro visu 
praedicto 12 denarios tan turn, et praedicta Cecilia et haeredessui omnia alia amer- 
ciamenta de tenentibus venientibus ad praedictum visum habere et percipere 
debent, &c. 

[ROTULO xvi. [ 

Dominus rex per Willclmun de Giselham, qui sequitur pro eo, petit versus 
Robertum Pogeys 40 libratas terrae cum pertinentiis in Bampton, quas domino 
regi injuste deforcaverat &c. et unde dicit quod dominus Henricus rex, pater domini 
regis nunc,tempore pacis fuit inde in seisina capiendi inde explete ad valentiam &c. 

Et Robertus venit et defendit jus domini regis ut deforcaverat et jure &c. et 
bene cogn. seisinam domini Henrici regis patris domini regis nunc, sed dicit quod 
idem dominus Henricus rex dedit praedictam terrain cuidam Huberto de Pogeys 
patri ipsius Roberti, cujus haeres ipse est, per chartam suam quam profert et quae 
testatur quod dominus Henricus rex, pater domini regis nunc, dedit praedicto 
Huberto praedictam terram cum pertinentiis, habendam et tenendam sibi et 
haeredibus suis et suis assignatis in perpetuum. Ideo ad judicium &c. 

[ROTULO XXV]. 
Placita coronae coram Salomone de Roffs, &c Fulcon. 



[ROTULO XL1X IN DOR SO.] 
Hundred, de Bampton venit pro XII. 

[ROTULO LI.] 

Adhuc de hundredo de Bampton Fulcon. 

De libertatibus dicunt quod Willelmus de Valentia tenet hundredum de 
Bampton quod valet per annum C solidis, et clamat habere retornum et extrac- 



12 

ta brevium et placitorum de namio vetito, et babet furcam, pillariam et tumbe- 
rellam et emend, assise panis et cerviciae et feriam in vigilia et in die Assump- 
tions beatae Maria?, et mercatum per quemlibet diem Mercurii, et in qualibet 
septimana, nesciunt quo warranto. Et super hoc venit Willielmus de Giselham 
qui sequitur pro domino rege, et dicit quod habet brevia de Quo warranto su- 
per hujusmodi libertates, et similiter Robertus de Grey habet in villa de 
Herdewick visum franci plegii, furcam, tumberellam, et emend, assisam panis et 
cervisise et Johannes Maudut, Osbertus Giffard, Johannes de Bosco, et Ro- 
bertus de Grey, clamant habere mercatum in manerio de Stanlake singulis 
septimanis per diem Veneris et similiter in eodem manerio habet furcam, tum- 
derellam, pillariam, et emendum assis. panis et cervicise, nesciunt quo warran- 
to. Ideo praedictae libertates, quoad praedictos Robertum de Grey et alios, ca- 
piantur in manum domini regis. &c. 



VII. INQUISITION OF KING EDWARD II, DATED NOV. 28, AND 

DEC. 1313. 

Among the Records in the custody of the Master of the Rolls pursuant to Stat. 1 and 2 Vict, eap, 9. 
and preserved in the Tower of London ; to wit, Inquisition of the 6th year of King Edward the Second 
No. 70, it is thus contained : 

EDWARDUS, DEI GRATIA REX ANGLIiE, DOM1NUS HIBERNI^S, ET DUX AQUITANNIjE, 
DILECTO ET FIDELI SUO ROGERO DE WELLESWORTH ESCAETORI SUO CITRA TRENTAM, 

salutem. Mandamus vobis quod, per sacramentum proborum et legalium homi- 
num de balliva vestra, per quos rei Veritas melius sciri poterit, diligenter inquiratis 
si sit ad damnum vel praejudicium nostrum aut aliorum, si concedamus dilecto et 
fideli nostro, Roberto Pogeys, quod ipse manerium suum de Estdels cum pertinen- 
tiis, et unam carucatam terrae, et tres acras bosci, cum pertinentiis, in Chatham 
juxta Roffam, in comitatu Kanciae, quae de nobis tenentur in capite, ut dicitur, 
dare possit et concedere Thomae Pogeys et Benedictae uxori ejus, habenda et ten- 
enda eisdem Thomae et Benedictae, et haeredibus ipsius Thomae, de corpore suo 
legitime procreatis, de nobis et haeredibus nostris per servitia inde debita et con- 
sueta in perpetuum. Et si idem Thomas obierit sine haerede de corpore suo legi- 
time procreato, tunc praedicta, manerium, terra, et boscus, cum pertinentiis, ad 
praefatum Robertum et haeredes suos integre revertantur, tenenda de nobis et haere- 
dibus nostris per servitia praedicta in perpetuum, necne. Et si sit ad damnum vel 
praejudicium nostrum aut aliorum, tunc ad quod damnum et quod praejudicium 
nostrum, et ad quod damnum et quod praejudicium aliorum, et quorum, et qualiter, 
et quo modo, et si praedicta, manerium, terra, et boscus, de nobis teneantur in ca- 
pite, sicut praedictum est, an de alio, et si de nobis, tunc per quod servitium, qua- 
liter, et quo modo, et si de alio, tunc de quo, vel de quibus, et per quod servi- 



APPENDIX, NO VII. 13 

tium, et qualiter, et quo modo, et quantum valeant per annum, in omnibus 
exitibus, juxta verum valorem eorundem. Et quae terra? et quae tenementa 
eidem Roberto remaneant, ultra donationem et concessionem praedictas, et ubi, 
et de quo, vel de quibus teneantur ; utrum videlicet de nobis, an de alio, et 
si de nobis, tunc per quod servitium, et qualiter, et quo modo, et si de alio, 
tunc de quo, vel de quibus, et per quod servitium, et qualiter, et quo modo, et 
quantum valeant per annum, in omnibus exitibus. 

Et Inquisitionem inde distincte et aperte factam, nobis sub sigillo vestro 
et sigillis eorum, per quos facta fuerit, sine dilatione roittatis et hoc 
breve. 

Teste me ipso apud Wyndesore, XXVIII die Novembris, anno regni nostri 
sexto Jar.. per ipsum regem. 



Inquisitio facta coram Escaetore domini regis apud Estdelse, die Martis proxi- 
ma post festum Sancti Nicholai, anno regni regis Edwardi sexto, per Johannem 
de Suthewyk, Nicholaum de Woldebam, Robertum de Betlescombe, Gilbertum 
Gildewynes, Moysem Lacy, Ricardum le Forstier, Johannem Rogier, Johannem 
atte Halle, Clementem le Chandelier, Robertum le Hayward, Rogerum le Chan- 
delier, et Gilbertum le Hayward. Qui dicunt per sacramentum suum, quod non 
est ad damnum vel praejudicium domini regis, aut aliorum, si rex concedat Ro- 
berto Pogeys, quod ipse manerium suum de Estdelse cum pertinentiis, et unam 
carucatam terras, et tres acras bosci cum pertinentiis, in Chetham juxta Roffam, 
in comitatu Kanciae, dare possit et concedere Thomae Pogeys et Benedictae uxori 
ejus, habenda et tenenda eisdem Thomae et Benedictae, ethaeredibus ipsius Thomae, 
de corpore suo legitime procreatis : et, n idem Thomas obierit sine haerede de cor- 
pore legitime procreato, tunc praedicta, manerium, terra, et boscus, cum pertin- 
entiis ad praefatum Robertum et haeredes suos integre revertantur, tenenda de 
domino rege et haeredibus suis per servitia inde debita et consueta in perpetuum. 
et dicunt quod praedictum manerium de Estdelse non tenetur de domino rege 
immediate, sed tenetur de Nicholao de Merewerth, per servitium duorum feodo- 
rum Militum et dimidii, et valet per annum in omnibus exitibus XX libras : et 
dicunt quod praedictae carucata terrae, et tres acrse bosci, cum pertinentiis, in 
Chetham tenentnr de domino rege, ut de castro domini regis de Ledes per servi- 
tium quartae partis feodi unius militis ; quod quidem castrum, cum pertinentiis, 
Margareta regina Angliae tenet ad terminum vitae suae ex assignatione domini 
Edwardi quondam regis Angliae, patris regis nunc, et valent terra ilia, boscus, per 
annum in omnibus exitibus X marcas. Dicunt etiam quod remanent praefato 
Roberto, ultra donationem et concessionem praedictas, manerium de Stokepogeys 
in comitatu Buckingham, quod tenetur de Johanne de Someri per servitium mili- 
tare, et valet per annum, in omnibus exitibus, C marcas, et medietas manerii de 
Bampton in comitatu Oxoniae, quae tenetur de domino Adamaro de Valencia, 



14 HISTORY OF BAMPTONj 

comite Pembroke, per servitium militare, et valet per annum, in omnibus exiti- 
bus, C marcas. 

In cujus rei testimonium praedicti Jurati huic Inquisitioni sigilla sua apposue- 
mnt. 



VIII. INQUISITION OF KING EDWARD II, DATED 
Dec. 9. and 2o, A. D. 1327 

Among the Records in the Custody of the Master of the Rolls, pursuant to Stat. 1 and 2 Vict., cap. 
94, and preserved in the Tower of London, to wit, Inquisition of the 20th year of the reign of King 
Edward the Second, No. 11, it is thus contained. 

Edwardus, Dei gratia Rex Angliae, et Dominus Hiberniae, dilecto sibi Thomae 
de Harpedene, escaetori suo in comitatibus Wiites. Southampton, Oxoniae, Berks, 
Bedford, et Buckingham, Salutem. Mandamus vobis, quod per sacramentum 
proborum et legalium hominum de balliva vestra, per quos rei Veritas melius 
sciri poterit, diligenter inquiratis, si sit ad damnum vel praejudicium nostrum 
aut aliorum, si concedamus dilecto et fideli nostro, Ricardo Talebot juniori et 
Elizabethae uxori ejus quod ipsi de maneriis suis de Policote in dicto comitatu 
Buckingham, Bampton in dicto comitatu Oxoniae, et Colingburn in dicto comi- 
tatu Wiites, cum pertinentiis, quae de nobis tenentur in capite, ut dicitur, feoffare 
possint dilectum et fidelem nostrum Gilbertum Talebot, et Thomam fratrem 
ejus, habendis et tenendis sibi et haeredibus suis, de nobis et haeredibus nos- 
tris, per servitia inde debita et consueta in perpetuum. Ita quod iidem Gilbertus 
et Thomas, habita inde plena et pacifica seisina, dare possint et concedere man- 
eria praedicta, cum pertinentiis, praefatis Ricardo et Elizabethae, habenda et ten- 
enda sibi et haeredibus de corporibus suis exeuntibus, de nobis et haeredibus 
nostris, per servitia praedicta in perpetuum : et si idem Ricardus et Elizabetha 
obierint sine haerede de corporibus suis exeunte, tunc maneria praedicta, cum 
pertinentiis, rectis haeredibus praedicti Ricardi remaneant, tenenda de nobis 
et haeredibus nostris, per servitia praedicta 4h perpetuum, necne : et si sit ad 
damnum vel praejudicium nostrum aut aliorum, tunc ad quod damnum, et quod 
prsejudicium nostrum, et ad quod damnum, et quod praejudicium aliorum, et 
quorum, et qualiter, et quo modo, et utrum maneria praedicta, cum pertinentiis, 
teneantur de nobis in capite, sicut praedictum est, an de alio j et si de nobis, tunc 
per quod servitium, et qualiter, et quo modo; et si de alio, tunc de quo, vel de 
quibus, et per quod servitium, et qualiter, et quo modo, et quantum valeant 
per annum in omnibus exitibus, juxta verum valorem eorundem, et si quae terrae 
et tenementa praefatis Ricardo et Elizabethae remaneant ultra maneria praedicta,et 
ubi, et de quo, vel de quibus teneantur, utrum videlicet de nobis, an de alio, et si 



APPENDIX, NO IX. 15 

de Nobis, tunc per quod servitium, et qualiter, et quo modo, et si de alio, tunc 
de quo, vel de quibus, et per quod servitium, et qualiter, et quo modo, et 
quantum valeant per annum in omnibus exitibus. Et inquisitionem, inde dis- 
tincte et aperte factam, nobis sub sigillo vestro et sigillis eorum, per quos 
facta fuerit, sine dilatione mittatis et hoc breve. 

Teste me ipso apud Kenilworth, IX die Decembris, anno regni nostri 
tieesimo. 

[In dorso : per custodem sigillis], 

Oxonia. 

Inquisitio capta coram Thoma de Harpeden, escaetore domini regis in comfc 
tatibus Wiltes v Southampton, Oxoniae, Berks, Bedford, et Buckingham ; vicesimo 
die Decembris, apud Bampton, anno regni regis Edwardi filii regis Edwardi 
vicesimo, per sacramentum Johannis Richeman, Henrici de Fifhide, Robert! 
de Brittelee, Johannis Bremond, Johannis de Calveston, Johannis de Everestoke, 
Nicholai Fynh., Johannis Bryn, Willielmi Dun, Johannis de Fernhull, Johannis; 
de Lewe, Adam le Rok., Johannis Muscath, et Nicholai Bilon. Qui DicuNr 
super sacramentum suum, quod non est ad damnum nee praejudicium domini 
regis aut aliorum, licet dominus rex concedat Ricardo Tallebot, juniori, et Eli- 
zabeths uxori ejus, quod ipsi de manerio de Bampton in comitatu Oxonia?, cum 
pertinentiis, feoffare possint Gilbertum Talbot et Thomam, fratrem ejus, habendo 
et tenendo sibi et haeredibus suis, de domino rege et hasredibus suis, per servitia 
inde debita et consueta^ in perpetuum. It a quod iidem Gilbertuset Thomas, - 
habita inde plena et pacifica seisina, dare possint etconcedere manerium prae- 
dictum, cum pertinentiis praefatis, Ricardo et Elizabethan, habendum et tenendum, 
sibi, et haeredibus de corporibus suis exeuntibus, de domino rege et hasredibus 
suis, per servitia inde debita et consueta in perpetuum* Et si idem Ricardus ; 
et Elizabetha obierint sine haerede de corporibus suis exeunte, tunc praedictum 
manerium, cum pertinentiis, rectis haeredibus praedicti Ricardi remaneat tenen- 
dum de domino lege et haeredibus suis per servitia praedicta in perpetuum. 
Dicunt etiam quod manerium de Bampton tenetur de domino rege in capite per 
homagium et fidelitatem, et per servitium unius feodi militis pro omni 
servitio. 

Item dicunt quod praedictum manerium de Bampton valet per annum, in 
omnibus exitibus, juxta verum valorem ejusdem, quadraginta libras. Item 
dicunt quod nullae terrae seu tenementa remanent praefatis Ricardo et Elizabethan 
in comitatu Oxoniae ultra manerium praedictum de Bampton. 

In cujus rei testimonium praedicti jurati sigilla sua apposuerunt. 



IX. INQUISITION OF KING EDWARD III, DATED JAN. 26. 
A. D. 1329. 

Among the Records in the Custody of the Master of the Rolls, pursuant to Stat. 1 and 2 Vict. r 

3 



16 HISTORY OF BAMPTON, 

cap. 94, and preserved in the Tower of London, to wit, Inquisition of the reign of King Edward 
the Third, [1st nrs.] No. 37, it is thus contained. 

Edwardus, Dei gratia rex Angliae, Dominus Hiberniae, et dux Aquitanniae, 
dilecto et fideli suo Simoni de Bereford., escaetori suo ultra Trentam, salutem. 
Quia Robertus de Eleford, qui de nobis tenuit in capite, diem clausit extre- 
mum, ut accepimus, vobis mandamus, quod omnes terras et tenementa, de qui- 
bus idem Robertus fuit seisitus, in dominico suo, ut de feodo, in balliva vestra, 
die quo obiit, sine dilatione capiatis in manum nostram, et ea salvo custodiri faci- 
atis, donee aliud inde praeceperimus. Et per sacramentum proborum et legalium 
hominum de balliva vestra, per quos rei Veritas melius sciri poterit, diligenter in- 
quiratis, quantum terrae idem Robertus tenuit de nobis in capite in balliva 
vestra, die quo obiit, et quantum de aliis, et per quod servitium, et quantum ter- 
rae illae valeant per annum in omnibus exitibus, et quis propinquior haeres ejus 
sit, et cujus aetatis. Et inquisitionem, inde distincte et aperte factam, nobis sub 
sigillo vestro, et sigillis eorum per quos facta fuerit, sine dilatione mittatis, et hoc 
breve. 

Teste me ipso apud Eborum, XXVI die Januarii, anno regni nostri se- 
cundo. 

[In dorso : Oxonia] 



OxONIA. 

Inquisitio capta coram Simone Bereforde, Escastore domini regis citra Tren- 
tam, apud Elevorde, quartodecimo die Februarii, anno regni regis Edwardi Tertii 
post conquestum secundo, juxta tenorem brevis domini regis huic Inquisitioni 
consuti, per sacramentum Johannis de Carsewelle, Stepliani de Crotebrugg, Hen- 
rici de Graftone, Johannis de Erlestoke, Johannis de Stoke, Henrici de Fifide, Jo- 
hannis de Fernhulle, Johannis Richeman, Johannis Evermond, Adaele Parker, Ri- 
cardi Stonhard, Johannis de Lyvorde, et Johannis de Lewe. Qui dicunt 
quod Robertus de Elevorde obiit die Martis proxima ante festum Sanctorum 
Fabiani et Sebastiani, seisitus in dominico suo,ut de feodo de quibusdam tenementis, 
cum pertinentiis, in Cote et Astone, in comitatu Oxonias, et est ibi unum mes- 
suagium, quod valet per annum XX denarios. Item sunt ibidem 52 acrae ter- 
ras in dominico, quas valent per annum 8 solidos, 8 denarios, pretium acrae 2 
denarii. Item sunt ibidem 6 acrae prati, quae valent per annum 6 solidos, 
pretium acras 12 denarii. Item sunt ibidem quinque Nativi, qui reddunt per 
annum 14 solidos, solvendos ad quatuor anni terminos, videlicet ad festum 
Sancti Michaelis, Sancti Thomse apostoli, Annunciationis beatae Marias, et fes- 
tum Sancti Johannis Baptistas, per asquales portiones. Et opera eorundem Nati- 
vorum, ad prata falcanda et blada metenda, valent per annum 2 solidos 11 
denarios. Item sunt ibidem tres Coterelli, qui reddunt per annum 6 solidos 
solvendos ad prasdicta festa, per aequales portiones, Item dicant, quod pras- 
dicta terras et tenementa in Cote et Astone tenentur de domino rege in capite 
per servitium essendi cum arcu et sagittis, sine aliqua alia armatura, in qua- 



APPENDIX, NO VII. 17 

libet guevra domini regis, infra regnum suum, per quadraginta dies ad cos- 
tum suum proprium. Item dicunt quod idem Robertus tenuit die supradicto 
in Lewe, in praedicto comitatu Oxoniae, duos liberos tenentes, qui reddunt 
per annum 8 solidos 9 denarios. solvendos ad festum Sancti Michaelis 4 soli- 
dos, 9 denarios, et ad festum Annunciationis beatae Marise Virginis 4 soli- 
dos, pro omni servitio. Item sunt ibidem duo Nativi, qui reddunt per annum 
6 solidos, solvendos ad festa Sancti Thomae Apostoli, Annunciationis beatae 
Marias, et Sancti Johannis Baptistae, per aequales portiones. Et opera eorun- 
dem duorum Nativorum, ad prata falcanda et blada metenda, valent 16 
denarios. 

Item dicunt quod praedicta terrae et tenementa in Lewe tenentur de domino rege 
in capite,per servitium portandi unum ostorium coram domino rege, quum domi- 
nus rex voluerit,ad costus domini regis. Item dicunt, quod idem Robertus tenuit 
die supradicto, apud Elevorde, in praedicto comitatu Oxonian, unum messuagium 
cum gardino, quae valent per annum 2 denarios. Item sunt ibidem acrae terras 
in dominico, quae valent per annum 6 solidos, 8 denarios, pretium acrae 2 dena- 
rii. Item sunt ibidem sex acrae prati, quae valent per annum 6 solidos, pretium 
acrae 12 denarii. Item sunt ibidem tres Coterelli, qui reddunt per annum 4 soli- 
dos, 1 denarium, solvendos ad praedicta quatuor festa, per aequales portiones. 
Et opera eorundem, ad blada metenda, valent per annum 10 denarios. Item 
dicunt quod praedicta, terrae et tenementa, tenentur de Jolianne de Grey, Roberto 
de Morby, et Rolando de Hastings, per servitium 10 solidorum per annum. Item 
dicunt quod Robertus de Elevorde, films Roberti de Elevorde defuncti, est pro- 
pinquior baeres ejus : et est aetatis viginti quinque annorum, et amplius. 
^ In cujus rei testimonium praedicti jurati huic Inquisitioni sigilla sua apposue- 
runt. 

Data die, anno, et loco, supradictis. 



X. GRANT OF FREE-WARREN TO RICHARD TALBOT, DATED 
14 EDWARD III, A. D. 1341, APRIL 10. 

Among the Records in the custody of the Master of the Rolls, pursuant to Stat. 1 and 2 Vict., cap. 
94, and preserved in the Tower of London, to wit, Charter Roll of the 14th year of the reign of King 
Edward the Third, No 37, it is thus contained. 

PRO RICARDO Rex eisdem, [archiepiscopis, episcopis, abbatibus, 
TALEBOT DE prioribus, comitibus, baronibus, justitiariis, vicecomi- 

WARENNA. TIBUS, PRiEPOSITIS, MINISTRIS ET OMNIBUS BALLIVIS ET 

pidelibus suis] salutem. Sciatis nos de gratia nostra speciali concessisse, et 
hac cbarta nostra connmiasse dilecto et fideli nostro Ricardo Talebot, quod ipse 
et haeredes sui in perpetuum habeant liberam Warennam, in omnibus dominicis 
terris suis de Bampton, in comitatu Oxoniae, et Poly cote iu comitatu Bucking- 
ham, ac Godrych Castel in marcbiis Walliae, dum tamen terrae illae non sint 



18 HlgTOUY OF BARTON, 

infra metas forestae nostrae. Ita quod nullus intret terras illas] ad fugandum iff 
eis, vel ad aliquid capiendum, quod ad warennam peftineat r sine lieentia et 
voluntate ipsius tticardi, vel haeredum suorum, super forisfacturam nostram 
decern librarum. Quare volumus &c. Dum tamen &c. Ita &c. His testibus, 
Venerabilibus Patfibus J. Cantuariensi archiepiscopo, totius Angliae primate, 
R. Dunelmensi et S. Eliensi episcopis, Johanne de Warenna comite Surriae, 
Willielmo de Bohun comite Norhampton, Henrico de Percy, Johanne Darcy 
senescallo hospitii nostri, et aliis. 

Data per manum nostram apud Westmonasterium, Xo die Aprilis. [Per 
breve de privato sigillo.] 



XI. INQUISITION OF 30th EDW. Ill, OCT. 30 AND NOV. 20, 
A. D. 1357. 

Among the Records in the custody of the Master of the Rolls, pursuant to Stat. 1 and 2 Vict. cap. A, 
and preserved in the Tower of London ; to wit, Inquisition of the 30th year of the reign of King Ed- 
ward the Third [1st nrs.] No. Si, it is thus contained : 

Edwardus, Dei gratia rex Anglic et Francis, et dominus Hiberni;e, di- 

LECTO SIBI JoHANNI LaUNDELS, ESCETORI SUO IN COMITATIBUS OxONI^E ET BERKS., 

salutem. Quia Ricardus Talbot, qui de nobis tenuit in capite, diem clausit ex- 
tremum, ut accepimus, tibi praecipimus, quod omnes terras et tenementa, de qui- 
bus idem Ricardus fuit seisitus, in dominico suo ut de feodo, in balliva tua, die 
quo obiit, sine dilatione capias in manum nostrum, et ea salvo custodiri facias, 
donee aliud inde praeceperimus. Et per sacramentum proborum et legalium 
hominum de balliva tua, per quos rei Veritas melius sciri poterit, dilig enter inqui- 
ras, quantum terras idem Ricardus tenuit de nobis in capite, tarn in dominico 
quam in servitio, in balliva tua, die quo obiit, et quantum de aliis, et per quod 
servitium, et quantum terra? illae valeant per annum in omnibus exhibits, et quis 
propinquior haeres ejus sit, et cujus aetatis. Et Inquisitionem, inde distincte et 
aperte factam, nobis sub sigillo tuo, et sigillis eorum per quos facta fuerit, sine 
dilatione mittas et hoc breve. 

Teste me ipso apud Westmonasterium, XXX die Octobris, anno regni nos- 
tri Angliae tricesimo, regni vero nostri Francias decimo septimo. Hatjk. 

[In dorso] 

Executio et responsio istius brevis patent in Inquisitione huic brevi con- 
suta. 



Inquisitio facta apud Bampton coram Johanne Laundels escaetore domini regis 
in comitatu Oxoniae vicesimo quinto die Novembris, anno regni regis Edwardi 
tertii a conquestu Angliae tricesimo, et Franciaa decimo septimo, juxta tenorem 
brevis domini regis huic inquisitioni eonsuti, per sacramentum Radulphi de Fre- 






APPENDIX, NO XII. 19 

tewelle, Johannis Car de , Joliannis Crok., Laurentii de la Penne, Johannis de 

Stoke, Thomas Turfray, Johannis Bernard, Stacii Rokaille, Rogeri Blaket, 
Willielmi Malyn, Johannis Whytefeld, et Elias atte Bolde. 

Qui dicunt, per sacramentum suum, quod Ricardus Talbot Chivaler non fuit 
seisitus in dominico suo, ut de feodo, die quo obiit, de aliquibus terris seu tene- 
ments in comitatu praedicto, eo quod praedictus Ricardus Talbot, per licentiam 
domini regis, concessit Thomas Talbot clerico, Johanni Carrew Chivaler et Johan- 
ni Laundels, sexto die Julii, anno regni praedicti regis Angliae vicesimo nono, 
manerium de Bampton cum pertinentiis in comitatu praedicto, habendum et ten- 
endum ad terminum vitas praedictorum Thomas Talbot, Johannis Carrew et Jo- 
hannis Laundels de domino rege et hasvedibus suis per servitia inde debita et 
consueta. Et dicunt quod praedictus Ricardus Talbot obiit XXIIIo die Octobris 
ultimo praeterito. Et dicunt quod Gilbertus Talbot filius ipsius Ricardi Talbot 
est haeres ejus propinquior, aetatis XXIIII annorum et amplius. 

In cujus rei testimonium praedicti jurati huic Inquisitioni sigilla sua apposue- 
runt. Data die, loco, et anno supradictis. 



XII. INQUISITION OF THE 36th OF EDW. Ill, NOV. 16, AND 
DEC. 21, A. D. 1362. 



Among the Records in the custody of the Master of the Rolls, pursuant to Stat. 1 and 2 Vict, 
cap. 94, and preserved in the Tower of London, to wit, Inquisition of the 36th year of the reign 
of King Edward the Third, p. 2, [1st. nrs.] No. 54 (h) it is thus contained : 

Edwardus, Dei gratia Rex Angliae, dominus Hiberniae et Aquitanniae, dilecto 
sibi Johanni de Estbury Escaetori suo in comitatu Oxoniae, Salutem. Quia Tho- 
mas Talbot clericus, qui de nobis tenuit in capite, diem clausit extremum, ut ac- 
cepimus, tibi praecipimus quod omnes terras et tenementa, de quibus idem Tho- 
mas fuit seisitus in dominico suo, ut de feodo, in balliva tus, die quo obiit, sine 
dilatione capias in manum nostram, et ea salvo custodiri facias, donee aliud inde 
praeceperimus. Et per sacramentum proborum et legalium hominum de balliva 
tua, per quos rei Veritas melius sciri poterit, diligenter inquiras quantum terras 
idem Thomas tenuit de nobis in capite, tarn in dominico quam in servitio, in 
balliva tua, die quo obiit, et quantum de aliis, et per quod servitium, et quan- 
tum terras illas valeant per annum, in omnibus exitibus, et quo die idem Tho- 
mas obiit, et quis propinquior hasres ejus sit, et cujus aetatis. Et Inquisiti- 
on em, inde distincte et aperte factam, nobis sub sigillo tuo, et sigillis eorum, 
per quos [facta] fuerit, sine dilatione mittas, et hoc breve. 

Teste me ipso apud Westmonasterium XVI die Novembris, anno regni uos- 
tri tricesimo sexto. Burstall. 

[In dorso] 

Ego Johannes de Estbury, Escastor domini regis in comitatu Oxoniae, ad 
istud breve vobis respondeo, prout patet in Inquisitione huic consuta. 

4 



20 HISTORY Oi' 1 BAMPTON, 



OxONIA. 

Inquisitio facta apud Bampton i \ comitatu Oxonia?, XXI die Decembris, 
annoregni regis Edwardi Tertii post conquestum tricesimo sexto, coram Johtnne 
de Estbury, Escastore domini regis in comitatu praedicto, virtute cujusdam bre- 
vis dicti domini regis, eidem Escastori directi, et huic Inquisition] consuti, per 
sacramentum Johannis Stokes, Johannis Chaumberleyn, Thomas Batyn, Johannis 
Fernhull, Walteri Crok, Willielmi Lomenour, Johannis Child, Johannis Freman, 
Joh. Moschet, Johannis Lokyere, Ricardi atte Dich, et Joh. Deighe. Qui dicunt 
quod Thomas Talbot, clericus, defunctus, non cenuit aliqua, terras seu tenementa, 
in dominico suo, ut de feodo, de domino rege in capite, nee de aliis, in comitatu 
prasdicto, die quo obiit. Sed dicunt quod idem Thomas tenuit ad terminum vitas 
suae, die quo obiit, nuper conjunctim feoffatus cum Johanne de Carieu et Johanne 
Laundels, defunctis, ex dimissione Ricardi Talbot militis, defuncti, de hasreditate 
Gilberti Talbot, filii prasdicti Ricardi, adhuc superstitis, manerium de Bampton, 
cum pertinentiis in eodem comitatu de domino rege in capite, per servitium unius 
feodi militis, de licentia domini regis per chartam suam. In quo quidem manerio 
sunt diversa edificia, quae nihil valent per annum ultra reprisas doinorum. Est 
ibidem unum gardinum, quod valet per annum II solidos, et unam columbare 
quod valet per annum II solidos. Sunt ibidem tres carucatae terra?, continentes 
in se CXCVI acras, unde duas partes possunt quolibet anno seminari, et valet 
acra, quando seminatur, per annum IV denarios, et tertia pars nihil valet, quia 
jacet ad Warectum, et in communi, et ibidem LX acras prati separalis, a festo 
Puriflcationis beatas Marias usque fsenum inde leva turn, et postea in communi, 
et valet acra XII denarios per annum, et unum molendinum aquaticum, quod 
valet per annum XX solidos, et ibidem quasdam pastura separalis, a festo 
Annunciationis beatas Marias usque festum Sancti Michas.is, quae valet per idem 
tempus XIII solidos, IV denarios ; et postea nihil valet, quia jacet in communi 
et ibidem qui dam reditus gallorum et gallinarum vocatus Churshet, qui valet per 
annum VI solidos, VIII denarios, solvendos ad festum Sancti Martini; et ibidem 
quidam reditus XL solidorum vocatus Candelmassyeve solvendus ad festum Pu- 
rificationis beatas Marias, et ibidem quidam reditus V solidorum, vocatus hert- 
peny, solvendus ad festum Pentecostes. Et sunt ibidem diversi tenentes quorum 
reditus et servitia valent per annum XXVI libras II solidos, solvendi inde ad festum 
Sancti Thomas Apostoli LXXI solidi, ad festum Annunciationis Beatas Marias IV 
libra?, XIII solidi, IV denarii, ad festum natalis beati Johannis Baptistas VI libra?, 
XVII denarii, et ad festum Sancti Michaslis, XI libras, VIII denarii. Etvi'sus 
franci plegii ibidem, ad terminos de Hockeday et Sancti Michaslis, valet C solidos. 
Et placita et perquisita hundred!, halmotas, tolneti, et mercati ibidem valent per 
annum XXXIII solidos, IV denarios. Et dicunt quod reversio dicti manerii de 
Bampton spectat ad prasfatum Gilbertum Talbot, filium et hasredem prasfati 
Ricardi Talbot defuncti, adhuc superstitem, et hasredes suos ; qui quidem Gil- 
bertus est astatis XXVIII annorum et amplius. Et dicunt quod prasdictus Tho- 
mas obiit XlVo die Octobris ultimo prasterito, et quod dictus Gilbertus, films et 
hasres prasfati Ricardi Talbot,filii et hasredis Gilberti Talbot, fratris prasdicti Thomas 



APPENDIX, NO XIII. 21 

defuncti, est haeres ejusdein Thomse propinquior, et plenae aetatis, ut praedictum est. 

In cujus rei testimonium, praedicti jurati huic Inquisitioni sigilla sua appo- 
suerunt. 

Data loco, die, et anno, supradictis. 



XIII. INQUISITION OF THE 41st OF EDW. Ill, MAY 16, AND 
OCT. 5, A. D. 1367. 

Among the Records in the Custody of the Master of the Rolls, pursuant to Stat. 1 and 2 Vict., cap. 
94, and preserved in the Tower of London, to wit, Inquisition of the 41st year of the reign of King Ed- 
ward the Third, (2nd nrs) No I, it is thus contained : 

Edwardus, Dei gratia Rex Angliae, dominus Hiberuiae et Aquitaniae, dilecto 
sibi Johanni de Evesham, Escaetori suo in comitatu Oxoniae, Salutem. Pr&ci- 
pimus t:bi quod, per sacramentum proborum et legalium homiuum de balliva 
tua, per quos rei Veritas melius sciri poterit, diligenter inquiras, si sit ad dam- 
num vel praejudicium nostrum aut aliorum si concedamus Edmundo de Elford, 
quod ipse quinque messuagia et quatuor virgatas terra?, cum pertinentiis, in 
Astone, juxta Bampton, et Lewe, quae de Roberto de Elford, qui ilia de nobis 
tenuit in capite, ut dicitur, eidem Edmundo ad vitam suam adquisivit, licentia 
nostra super hoc non obtenta, retinere possit et habere, ad totam vitam suam 
de nobis et haeredibus nostris, per servitia inde debita et consueta, necne : et 
si sit ad damnum vel praejudicium nostrum, aut aliorum, tunc ad quod damnum, 
etquod praejudicium nostrum, et ad quod damnum, et quod praejudicium alio- 
rum, et quorum, et qualiter, et quo modo. Et, si messuagia et terra praedicta, 
teneantur de nobis in capite, ut praedictum est, an de alio ; et si de nobis, tunc 
per quod servitium, et qualiter, et quo modo; et si de alio, tunc de quo, vel de 
quibus, et per quod servitium, et qualiter, et quo modo, et quantum messuagia 
et terra praedicta valeant per annum, in omnibus exitibus, juxta verum valorem 
eorundem. Et si quae terrae et tenementa eidem Edmundo remaneant, ultra 
messuagia et terrain praedicta, tunc quae terrae et quae tenementa, et ubi, et de 
quo, vel de quibus teneantur, utrum videlicet de nobis, an de alio, et si de nobis, 
tunc per quod servitium, et qualiter, et quo modo ; et si de alio, tunc de quo, 
vel de quibus, et per quod servitium, et qualiter, et quo modo, et quantum va- 
leant per annum in omnibus exitibus. Et Inquisitionem, inde distincte et aperte 
factam, nobis, in Cancellariam Nostram, sub sigillo tuo et sigillis eorum per 
quos facta fuerit, sine dilatione mittas, et hoc breve. 

Teste me ipso apud Westmonasterium, XVI die Maii, anno regni nostri qua- 
dragesimo primo. Folkyngh. 



Inquisitio facta apud Wytteneye, in comitatu Oxoniae, quinto die Octobris, 
anno regni Regis Edwardi Tertii post Conquestum quadragesimo primo, coram 
Johanne de Evesham, Escaetore domini regis in comitatu praedicto, virtute 



£2 HIST011Y 01? BAMPTON,, 

brevis dicti domini regis eidem escaetori directi, et prassentibus consuti, per 
sacramentum Johannis de Stokes, Thomas Gostard, Willielmi Haddon, Thomas 
Batyn, Henrici Torpheray, Willielmi Somenour, Johannis Pece, Johannis 
Greyndere, Johannis Freman, Willielmi Cok, Johannis Nel, et Thomae Taillouv, 
oneratorum et juratorum super articulis, in dicto brevi contentis. Qui dicunt, 
per sacramentum suum, quod non est ad damnum nee praejudicium domini regis 
seu aliorum, licet dominus rex concedat Edmundo de Eleford, quod ipse quinque 
messuagia et quatuor virgatas terras cum pertinentiis, in Astone, juxta Bampton, 
et Lewe, quae de Roberto de Eleford qui ilia de domino vege tenuit in capite, 
eidem Edmundo, ad vitam suam adquisivit, licentia domini regis super hoc non 
obtenta, retinere possit et habere, ad totam vitam suam, de domino rege et haere- 
dibus suis, per servitiainde debita et consueta. Et dicunt quod dictae, tria mes- 
suagia et tres virga+ae terrae, cum pertinentiis de prasdictis quinque messuagiis 
IV virgatis terrae sunt in Astone, juxta Bampton, et tenentur de domino 
rege in capite, per servitium, ad inveniendum unum hominem, cum arcu et sagit- 
tis, per quadraginta dies, in exercitu suo, in Anglia, et Wallia, tempore guerrae 
sumptibus suis propriis. Et dicunt quod dicta? II messuagia et III virgatae ter- 
ras valent per annum, in omnibus exitibus suis, XXX solidos. Et dicunt, quod 
duo messuagia et una virgata terrae sunt in Lewe et tenentur de domino rege in 
capite, per servitium ad portandum unum falcon em lanearium domini regis. Et 
dicunt quod dicta messuagia et terras in Lewe valent per annum, in omnibus 
exitibus, juxta verum valorem eorundem III solidos IV denarios. 

Item dicunt quod remaneat eidem Edmundo, ultra messuagia et terrain pras- 
dicta, unum messuagium et dimidia virgata terras, cum pertinentiis, in Ele- 
ford, quas tenentur de Johanne Grey milite, ut de manerio suo de Herdwyk, 
per servitium annui reditus II solidorum. Et dicunt quod dictae messuagia et 
terrae valent per annum, ultra reprisas, II solidos. Item dicunt, quod dictus 
Edmundus tenet unam virgatam et dimidiam terras arabilis, cum pertinentiis, in 
villa de Stanlake, quae tenentur de feodo Aumarle, per servitium militare. Et 
quod dictas terrae valent per annum in omnibus exitibus, j uxta verum valorem 
eorundem, VI solidos, VIII denarios. 

In cujus rei testimonium sigilla prasdictorum juratorum prassentibus sunt ap- 
pensa. 

Data loco, die, et anno supradictis. 



XIV. EXTRACT FROM HENRY VIII'S GRANT OF THE LANDS 

OF ENSHAM ABBEY TO EDWARD NORTH. 

A. D. 1543. 

This grant is printed entire, together with the value of all the lands mentioned therein, in Dugdale's 
Monasticon Anglieanum, Vol. Ill, p. 27, from MS. Cotton. Nero C ix, fol. 158. 

Rex omnibus &c. Sciatis quod nos, in consideratione veri, fidelis, et accepta- 
bilis servitii dilecti servientis nostri Edwardi Northe militis, thesaurarii curiae 



APPENDIX, NO XV. 23 

nostra? augmentationum reventionum coronas nostrae nobis ante hac multipliciter 
impensi, de gratia nostra speciali ac ex certa scientia et mero motu nostris, de- 
dimus et concessimus, ac per praesentes damus et concedimus prasfato Edwardo 
Northe totum dominium et situm nuper monasterii de Eynesham, alias dicti En- 
sham &c maneria nostra de Shyfforde, Bampton pro prsedic- 

to manerio de Shyfford et ceteris pragmissis cum suis pertinentiis in Shyfford et 

Bampton praedict &c. 

Teste rege apud Terlynge, XVIIIo die Julii, anno regis Henrici octavi 
XXXVo. 

Manerium de Shefforde valet in Redd, assis. tarn librorum et custum tenen. in 
Shefforde, Cote, Aston, Ducklington, et Stanlake, quam firm, scitus manerii cum 
terr. dominical, eidem pertin. modo dimiss. cuidam Stokes per indentur. pro ter- 
mino annorum, necnon in prone, et perquis. cur. ibidem communibus annis XX 
IIIli. XIs. XId. 

Mis. et repris. Annual. Xma domino regi reservat. per annum, XL Vs. lid, 

Et sic valet clar. per annum, XX III XX Id. 



XV. A CATALOGUE OF NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL CURIOSITIES, 
WITHIN THE COUNTY OF OXFORD. 

[From an antique MS. in the LandsdoWe Collection [No. 905, f. 41.] in the British Museum. This 
curious Document appeari,from the orthography and style of penmanship, to be as ancient as the begin, 
ning of the 17th Century.] 

IN THE HEAVENS AND AIR. 

Two spurious Suns near the true one sun about three years since at En- 
sham. 

The tempest called Prester, happened near Oxon, Anno 1666. 

An Echo repeating 10 words distinctly in Woodstock Park. 

Waters. 

Sulphureous, at Dedington and at Brule. 

Chalybeat, but weak, at Shipton Under Whichwood. 

Waters, that take not soap, or will brew, at Thame. 

Waters tasting like Milk, at Wardington. 

A spring that breaks forth but now and then, at Assenton. 

Petrifying Waters, at North Assheton, Burton le Tham, Somerton. 

A salt spring at Clifton, near Dedington. 

Fountains remarquably cold in summer and hot in winter, the former at Roll- 
ington, the latter at Shottover Forest. 

A small cataract at Somerton. 

5 



m HISTORY OF BAMPTON, 

Rivuli subterranei, at Heddington, Shottover Forest. 
Water-works at Enghton, and Hanwell. 

Earths, Sands, Clays, &c. 
Bituminous Earths or Peats at Burton Letham, Thame, Cowley. 
Earth for Fuller's use, Stanton-Harcourt. 
A sorte of marie at Merton. 

Earth for Potter's use (but not very good) at Marsh Balden and Nuneham 
Courtney. 

Tobacco Pipe Clay at Shottover Forest. 

An anonymous very white Earth like crude Alabasters, at Wynton. 

Which-earth, at Thame, Waterperry, Adwell. 

Gypsum nativum (ut puto) Plinii, at Milton, Great Teu, Stansfield. 

An aluminous Earth, at Ducklington. 

Stone-yellow and Clay-yellow oker, at Shottover Forest. 

A coarser sort of yellow oker at Garsington. 

Another yellow oker, at Ducklington. 

Clay mixt with a shining Grit, at Hampton-Gay. 

A course dark Umber, at Bladen. 

A light and finer Umber at Waterperry. 

A white fine Sand, at Finstork. 

A sort of Sand, sold by Retaile at 20 sh : per Bushel, at Kingham. 

Good Coal, but the bedds not above 4 or 5 inches thicke at Kidlington. 
Lignum fossile, at Ducklington, Wooton. 

Damps of the earth very mortall, at North Leigh. 

A considerable prospect from Hill, a mile North East of Wynton, where 10 
mercat-towns may be seen in a clear day. 

Cave in the earth, called Ainket-hole, near Cornbury. 

Stones. 

Free Stones, at Cornbury-Park, Heddington, Wynton. 

Slap-stones for mounds, Bradwelle. 

Slat-stone, for covering Houses, Stansfield. 

Best fire-and weather -stone at Wynton and Horneton. 

Grave stones, Ibid. 

Ragg-stones at Chaileton. 

Raggit, at Whitefield, Stoke-Talmage. 

Marble, at Bleckington. 

Mill stones for the Oil Mills, Ibid. 

The Golden Pyrites, at Cleydon ; Silver at Clifton. 

A sorte of Iron-stone, at Thame. 

Fluores, spars, in allmost every quarry. 

Lapis (ut puto) calaminaris, at Fyfield. 

A sort of Iron-stone, at Thame. 

Globuli coloris ferrei, ponderosi, — laeves, granulati, at Cornwell. 

Lapis Sardii, at Dorchester, 

Lithoxylum, Nuneham Courtney. 



APPENDIX, NO XV. £5 

Transparent pebles, at Kidlington. 

FORMED STONES. 

» 

To ye likenes of Cockles, Glympton, Wynton : Oysters, Oxford : Muscles, Alker- 
ton. 

Asteria, at Claydon, Swerfond. 

Astroites at Heddington, Steeple-Burton. 

Ophiomorphites, at Sandford, Cuddesden, Thame. 

Cochleomorphites at Adderbury, Langley. 

Ostreomorphites, at Shottover forest. 

Hippocephaloides, at Heddington. 

Schelites, at Shottover. 

Dyorchis, at Shottover. 

Triorchis, Ibid. 

Buchardites reticulati, at Shetford. 

Buchardites costati, at Bridge-Norton. 

Cornu Ammonis, Oxon. 

Otites, Heddington, Sommerton. 

Echinites primi Aldrovandi, at Cowley. 

Echinites magni Aldrovandi, at Tangley, Fulbrook, Burford. 

Lapis Judaicus fsemineus, at Heddington. 

Stalagmites, at Thame, Kirkelington. 

Pisolithes, at Rey-brooke. 

Fungites, at Heddington. 

Lapides, in quibus aves effigiata?, at Wardington. 

Lapis Mamillaris, at Lewkner. 

Belemnites, colore cinereo, Deddington ; casruleo, Great Rowlright. 

Lapis acetabulum referens, at Lewkner. 

Ossa humana petrificata, at Cornwell. 

Silex margam continens, Lewkner. 

Lapis specularis, Rhomboides, at Heddington. 

Stone sealed like a Sigle, found in tho middle of a block of coal, at Cornwell. 

Ophthal mites, at Oxon. 

Lapidis Lyncurii species, at St. Clement's. 

Trees and Plants, not known before at the Physic-Garden. 

A Hawthorn, with white Berrys, at Bampton. 

A sort of Elme, with very narrow leaves, at Han well. 

The hundred Pound peare. at Stanlake. 

The peare of Paradise, at Latchford. 

— Both these bear twice per Annum. 

Helleborine angusti-folior montana, flore nonnihil candicante, at Lewkner. 

Triticum caule rubro, at Sydenham. 

Mixt Lammas Wheat, at Crowell. 

Triticum bispicatum : Hordeum hixsicatum at Fulbrooke. 

Hordeum praecox, at Gaunt-house in North-moore. 



26 HISTORY OF BAMPTON, 

Other trees and plants, not ordinary, found in the 
county of oxon. 
A great spreading Oake, from bough's end to bough's end 108 feet, in circumfe- 
rence 324, at Rycot. 

Another Oake, from bough's end to bough's end 81 feet, in circumference 
243, at Nuneham Courtney. 

A great old Elme, in Magdalen College Grove, barked quite round for many 
years, yet lives. 

An Oake, that fore'els the birth of the next heire, and death of the present 
possessor, of Ricot, in the Park. 

Fraxinus eleganter contorta, at Bisseten. 

Other Ash- trees remarkable in their growth, Ibid. 

Unusual grains sowne in Oxfordshire. 

1. Carthanus, or Bastard-Saffron, commonly called the Scarlet-Flower, at 
North- Ash ton. 

2. Ray-Grass sowne with good success, about Kidlington and Islip. 

3. Ditto, a good improvement of light stone brush-land, at Steeple-Barton et 
alibi. 

4. Carraways, sowne with good success, about Bampton and Clanfield, that 
one pound of theis equalls two from London in value. 

Animals, with things on usual [unusual] attending them. 

Ludovicus's Bees, at C. C. C, Oxon. 

A water-insect, bred within a stone, called a stone-caddi, at Cornwell. 

Upupa, the whooping bird, at Forrest-Hill, Cassington. 

No Snakes ever seen in Oxfordshire, North of Woodstock. * 

A white Linnet, at Deddington. 

A sort of Chub, peculiar to the river Evenlode, exceeding, at least equalling 
the Pearch and Tench in goodness, at Shipton Under Whichwood. 

Fossile Eeles, at Eynsham. 

Fresh-water Muscles, much bigger than the sea ones, at Shottover Forest, 
Bradwell, Stanton St. John's. 

A Hog, almost 13 hands high, at Upper Tadmerton. 

A monstrous Greyhound, begotten between an Irish Greyhound and an English 
Mastiff, at Sir Timothy Tyrrel's. 

Three horses, each at least 40 years old, at Ashton Rowant, Sherborn, Soul- 
dern. 

A woman of 60 years old brought to bed of a son, both now living at Shet- 
ford. 

Richard Clifford, late of Rollcot the oldest man I have yet heard of in this 
county, viz. 114 years old. 

Mr. Evans, Rector of Heath, had a stone grow under his tongue that almost de- 
prived him of his speech, which he drew forth with his owne hand. 



An Argument this that the climate is cold, damp, and barren. 



APPENDIX, NO XV. 27 

Richard Hastings of Newton, with Origen, hath made himself an Eunuch, for 
the kingdom of heaven, and is now living. 

They hold their Common at Ensham hy drawing a load of wood to the Abbey, 
with men's hands on Whitsunday. 

The families of ye Lord Norris of Ricot, and of one Mr. Wood of Bampton, 
have a certain premonition before their deaths, the one by the Oake aforesaid, the 
other by a violent knocking. 
Bodies of men preserved from putrefaction by extreame moisture, Wendlesbury. 

Things of art. 

The flat flores of timber at the Theater, — Stone at Queen's College. 

The roofs of Merton College Treasury, and a Chappell at Norwigh, remarkable. 

A Kitchin within a Chimney,or rather a Kitchen without a Chimney, at Stan- 
ton-Harcourt. 

A Mill, that grinds apples for cider, and wheat to flour, while it sifts at the 
same time into 4 different finenesses : Oates, which it cutts from ye huske and 
winnows from the Chaffe, into pure Oat-meal ; Lastly, it grinds mustard, All 
which are performed with one horse, together or severally, as desired, at Lugmore 
(Tusmore ?) 

A mill, that grinds com, catts stones, and bores Guns, altogether or severally, 
at Han well. 

A Nett, that certainly catches all the fishes that swim within such a 
compass, at Hanwell. 

An ingenious Roll, for land that is light and subject to couch-grass, at 
Bollscot. 

A clock that goes by water at Hanwell. 

A walk, so ingeniously contrived, that standing in the middle, no eye can 
perceive but it is perfectly streight, but removing to either end, it appears, on the 
contrary, so strangely crooked, that the eye cannot reach much above half the 
way, at Lugmore. 

An Oast, or Mault-Roller of stone, first invented by Valentine Stronge, secure 
from the danger of fire, and drying quicker, better, and with lesser charge than 
others, at Wynton and Holwell. 

The ingenious Hook, made to lift barrels by the help of a screw within a box, 
so easy and without the least jogg, that the beere may be drawne presently after 
stooping, at Stanton-Harcourt, Shipton Underwood. 

A rack, soe open, so well contrived, that they cannot spoil one straw, at Lug- 
more. 

Utensills for brewing made of stone, at Wynton. 

An ingenious contrivance to prevent great stacks of hay, Saint-foyne &c. from 
firing, at Lugmore. 

Flint-glasses made at Henley. 

Antiquities. 
Saxon and Danish Fortifications at Bladen, Tadmerton, Lineham, Idbury, 
Chaselton, Shipton-under Wichwood. 

Roman Barrows, at Fritwell, Stanton Harcourt. 



28 HISTORY OF BAMPTON, 

Ancient ways, Akemann Stret going through Fritwell, and the Portway through 
Soldern. 

The Fosse-way, yet to be seen near Bradwell Grove. 

Pavimentum Paenicum sive Mosaicum — Asaraton Graecorum — Lithostroton 
Plinii. — ploughed up at Great-Tew. 

Rowl-right Stones. 

The great Stones in Stanton Harcourt field. 

The vaults and passages under ground at Woodstock and Bloxham. 

The font of Saint Edward at Kiddington. 

An arrow or dart of an antique forme, plowed up at Steeple-Barton. 

A Stone, found in Sir Thomas Spencer's Garden, with China or Runic charac- 
ters. 

An ancient image of brass of Our Saviour, plowed up at Hampton-Gay. 

An ancient Vane taken up at Wendlebury. 

Ancient Roman and English money at Aston Rowant, Wynton, Burford, Strat- 
ton Audley, Swerford, Chipping Norton. 



INQUISITION CONCERNING ROBERT VEYSEY'S BEQUEST TO 
FOUND BAMPTON GRAMMAR-SCHOOL, JAN. 12, 1637. 

Oxon. An inquisition indented taken at the city of Oxon the 12th day of 
January in the 13th year of the reign of our sovereign lord Charles by the grace 
of God king of England, Scotland, France and Ireland, Defender of the 
faith, &c. 

Before Richard Bayley D. D., vicechancellor of the University of Oxon, 
Henry Southam Esq., mayor of the city of Oxford, John Prideaux, D. D. 
Richard Zouche, doctor of law, chancellor to the bishop of Oxford, and John 
Whistler, esq., by virtue of his majesty's commission under the great seal of 
England, to them and others directed to enquire for the due execution of the 
statute made in the parliament holden at Westminster the 27th day of October 
in the 43rd year of our late sovereign lady Queen Elizabeth, entitled an Act 
to redress the misemployment of lands, goods and stock of money heretofore 
given to charitable uses, by the oaths of Thomas Speede, Anthony Edwards 
William Warland, Richard Willimott, Nicholas Redhead, Edward West John 
Collens, \\ r illiam Spencer, Thomas May, Robert Wheeler, Richard Farr James 
Yates and Robert Nicholas, good and lawful men of the county aforesaid. Who 
say upon their oaths that Robert Veysey the elder, late of Chimney, in the 
county of Oxon, gent., deceased, by his last will and testament, bearing date 
the first day of July, in the 11th year of the reign of our Sovereign lord king 
Charles that now is, amongst other things did publish and declare his will to be 
and did thereby give and bequeath, to and for the freeschool to be founded and 
erected in Bampton, the sum of £ 100 for and towards the building thereof with 
ashleane worke, and did also give £ 200 more to be disposed as his executors, 
Mr. William Hodges, Mr. John Palmer, and three others of the sufficients men in 



APPENDIX, NO XVI. 29 

Bampton thould think fit concerning the same school with some protrature at 
the upper end of the same. And the said Robert Veysey, by the same will, did 
make, nominate and appoint his nephew William Veysey of Bampton in the 
county of Oxon, clothier, his full and whole executor of that his last will and testa- 
ment, only in hope, trust, and confidence for the true payment of all his debts and 
legacies and to be accountable thereof to his overseers monthly, as by the said 
last will and testament appeareth. And the said jurors further say that the said 
Robert Veysey afterwards, that is to say the 11th day of July, in the year of our 
Lord God 1635, died leaving sufficient assets to pay all his debts and legacies. 
And the said William Veysey did take upon him the burden of the said executorship, 
and proved his said will in due form of law. And that the said £ 300, or any part 
thereof, sithence the death of the said Robert Veysey, hath not been employed 
or paid by the said William Veysey the executor, as by the said will the same is 
limited aud appointed to be employed and paid. 

Oxon. Orders and decrees made at the city of Oxon in the county of Oxon 
the 12th day of Jan. in the 13th year of the reign of our sovereign lord Charles, 
by the grace of God king of England, Scotland, France and Ireland, Defender of 
the faith, &c. By Rich. Bayley D. D., vicechancellor of the University of Oxon, 
Henry Southam Esq. mayor of the city of Oxon, John Prideaux, D. D„ Richard 
Zouche, Doctor of Law, Chancellor to the bishop of Oxford, John Whistler esq. 
by virtue of his majesty's commission under the great seal of England, bearing 
date the 23rd day of March in the 12th year of the reign of our sovereign lord 
Charles to them and others directed for the execution of the statute made in the 
high court of parliament holden at Westminster the 27th day of October in the 
43rd year of the reign of our late sovereign lady Queen Elizabeth, intituled an 
" Act to redress the misemployment of land, goods and stock of money given to 
charitable uses and as concerning the £300 given by the late will and testa- 
ment of Robert Veysey towards the erecting and endowing of a free-school in 
Bampton the said commissioners do order, adjudge and decree that William Vey- 
sey the executor of the said Robert shall forthwith pay into the hands of John 
Palmer of Bampton aforesaid the said £ 300 with interest thereof from the 
time of the decease of the said Robert Veysey after the rate of £ 5 in the hundred 
from the time of decease of the said Robert, until the said money shall be paid 
to be employed toward the erecting and endowing of a free-school in such 
manner as by the said will is directed. 

And they do further order and decree that William Hodges of Bampton aforesaid 
clerk, William Veysey, John Palmer, Edwad Carter, Thomas WiUear, and Will. 
Hancks, »r the major part of them, and in case there shall be equality of voices, 
then that part, on which the said William Veysey shall give his voice or suffrage, 
shall have the placing and election of the first school-master there, and that the 
school-master of the said school shall from time to time be elected chosen and 
visited and upon just cause amoved by the three vicars of the said parish for the 
time being and the heir of the said Robert Veysey or the major part of them that 
shall be present after sufficient warning of such visitation, new election or nomi- 
nation and in case there shall be difference, in opinion in such their visitation, nomi- 



30 HISTORY OF BAMPTON 

nation, election or amoval of any schoolmaster, then that opinion or suffrage 
shall be followed, unto which the major part of them shall give their voices. And 
in case there shall be equality of voices, then that part or side, unto which the 
heir of the said Robert Veysey shall give his voice or suffrage, shall be taken and 
pursued. And do further order and decree that the lands that shall be purchased 
for the endowment and maintainance of the schoolmaster there shall be purchas- 
ed in the name of William Veysey the executor, Sir Thomas Whord, knight, 
William Hodges, Robert Veysey the younger, John Palmer, Henry Medhopp, 
Rich. Keene, Henry Coxeter, Thomas Willier, William Hanks, William Wise, 
and John Trinder. And that as often as all the said feoffees shall be dead, 
except four surviving feoffees then those feoffees shall convey the said lands 
so purchased for the said school and other endowments of the said school un- 
to eight or more of the most substantial persons of the said parish to be no- 
minated and elected in such sort, manner or form as the said schoolmaster is 
appointed to be elected, so that those that shall be of the name of the said 
Robert Veysey be chiefly preferred in that nomination. 



XVII. GRANT FROM TRUSTEES FOR THE SALE OF CHURCH- 
LANDS TO Mrs. JANE HANCKS, OF A MOIETY OF BAMPTON 
DEANERY IN OXFORDSHIRE. 

Septuagesima octava pars claus. Anno Domini 1650. 

THIS INDENTURE made the nine and twentieth day 
WOLLASTON MIL. of September, in the yeare of our Lord God, according 

ET HANCKS to the computation of the Church of England, one thou- 

14 sand six hundred and fiftie, BETWEEN Sir John 

Wollaston Knight, Robert Titchborne, Thomas Noell, 
Marke Hildesley, Stephen Estwicke, William Hobson, Thomas Arnold, Owen 
Roe, George Langham, John Stone, John White, William Wyberd, Daniell 
Taylor, William Rolfe and Rowland Wilson, esquires, being by two severall 
Acts of this present Parliament, the one intituled " An Act of the Commons 
of England in Parliament assembled for the abolishing of Deanes, Deanes and 
Chapters, Cannons, r Prebends, and other offices and tytles of or belonging to any 
Cathedrall or Collegiate-Church or Chappell within England and Wales," 
and the other intituled " An Act with further instructions to the Trustees, 
Contractors, Treasurers and Registers for the sale of the lands and possessions 
of the late Deans, Sub-deans, Deanes and Chapters, &c. and for the better 
and more speedy execution of the former Acts, Ordinances and Instructions 
made concerning the same persons trusted for the conveying of such of the 
lands and possessions of the said late Deanes, Deanes and Chapters, Canons, 
Prebends, and other persons named in the said Acts, as by the same Acts 
respectively are vested and settled in the said Trustees and theire heires in 
such sort as in the said Acts respectively is mentioned, of the one part, and 



APPENDIX, NO XVII. 31 

Jane TTanckes of Bamp. in the co. of Oxon, widowe, of the other part — WITNESS- 
ETH that the said Sir John Wollaston, [&c. as before] in obedience to the said Acts 
respectively, and by virtue thereof and in execution of the powers and trusts there- 
by respectively committed to them, and at the desire and by the warrant of Sir 
William Roberts, knight, Clement Oxenbridge, Robert Smith, Robert Fenwicke, 
and Edward Cresset, esquires, who, together with others named in the said Act 
hereinbefore first mentioned, or any five or more of them, are by the said Acts, 
or one of them, authorised to treat, contract and agree for the sale of the said 
lands and possessions, in such sort as in the said Acts respectively is mentioned 
and in consideration of the summe of eight hundred sixtie nine~pounds six shil- 
lings and six pence, of lawfull money of England, the first maietie whereof, be- 
ing four hundred thirtie-fower pounds, thirteene shillings and three pence, the 
said Thomas Noell and William Hobson, two of the Treasurers in that behalf, ap- 
pointed by the said first mentioned Act, have by writing under theire hands, bear- 
ing date the eight and twentieth day of this present moneth of September, nowe 
produced by the said Jane Hancks and remayning with her, certifyed to be payd 
and satisfyed in such sort as by the same writing appeares ; and the second moye- 
tie thereof is to be paid or secured by the said Jane Hancks, according to the 
Contract certifyed to the said Trustees by the said Contractors to have bene made 
for this purchase have graun ted, aliened, bargained and sold, and by theise presents 
do graunt, alien, bargaine and sell unto the said Jane Hancks her h. and a. 
ALL THAT the moietie or halfendeale of a certain Messuage or Tenement, of 
one close of ground thereunto adjoining, and of one yard-land and an halfe of 
arable land thereunto belonging, with their and every of theire appurtenances, 
containing by estimation twentie acres more or lesse, now or late in the tenure or 
occupation of Thomas Collingwood, his Assignee or Assigns, SITUATE, lying, 
and being within the Mannor of Bampton, in the countie of Oxon, and all that 
the other moietie of one Messuage or tenement, of one close of pasture- 
ground thereunto adjoyning, and of one yard land and an halfe of arable land 
thereunto belonging, with theire and everie of theire appurtenances, conteyning 
by estimation twentie acres, more or lesse, nowe or late in the ocupation of Phil- 
lip Collingwood, his Assignee or Assignes, situate, lying and being within the 
said manor of Bampton ; and ALL THOSE SEVERAL COPPIEHOLD TENE- 
MENTS, as they are now divided, with theire and everie of their appurtenances, 
parcell of the said manor of Bampton in the said Co. of Oxon, (that is to say) 
All that Messuage or tenement, with the appurtenances, and all that garden and 
one yard land thereunto belonging, with the appurts. lying and being in Bamp- 
ton aforesaid, conteyning by estimation 20 acres, more or less, now or late in 
the tenure or occupation of William Green, his Assignee or Assignes, And all that 
other messuage or tenement with the appurts. and all that garden and one yard land 
thereunto belonging, with their appurtenances, situate lying and being in Bampton 
aforesaid and now or late in the tenure or occupation of William Collingwood, his 
Assignee or Assignes, and all that other messuage or tenement there with the ap- 
purtenances and one halfe yard land thereunto belonging with the appurten- 
ances, lying and being in Bampton aforesaid, now or late in the tenure or occu- 

6 



32 HISTORY OF BAMPTON, 

pation of John Sidwell, his assignee or assignes and all that cottage or tenement 
with the appurtenances, situate lying and being in Bampton aforesaid, now or 
late in the tenure or occupation of Walter Castle, his assignee or assigns, and all 
that other cottage or tenement there with the appurtenances, now or late in the 
tenure or occupation of Robert Jones, his assignee or assignes, and all that other 
cottage or tenement there with the appurtenances, now or late in the tenure or 
occupation of John Carter, his assignee or assigns, And all that other cottage or 
tenement there with the appurtenances, now or late in the tenure or occupation 
of Robert Wright, his assignee or assigns And all that cottage or tenement there 
with the appurtenances, now or late in the tenure or occupation of William 
Edwards, his assignee or assigns. And all that other cottage or tenement 
there with the appurtenances, now or late in the tenure or occupation of An- 
thony Cromwell, his assignee or assigns, and all that other cottage or tene- 
ment there with the appurtenances, now or late in the tenure or occupation 
of John Clerke, his assignee or assigns. And all that other cottage or tenement 
there with the appurtenances, now or late in the tenure or occupation of Edward 
Blagrave, his assignee or assigns and all that other cottage or tenement there with 
the appurtenances, now or late in the tenure or occupation of Richard Blagrave, 
his assignee or assigns, and all that messuage or tenement with the appurtenances 
and all that garden and one yard land thereunto belonging, with the appurten- 
ances, lying and being in Bampton aforesaid, and now or late in the tenure or 
occupation of John Sy dwell, his assignee or assigns, and all that other messuage 
or tenement there, with the appurtenances, and one quarter of a yard land there- 
unto belonging, with the appurtenances, now or late in the tenure or occupation 
of Richard Heysey, his assignee or assigns, and all that other messuage or tene- 
ment wi*h the appurtenances and one orchard and curtilage thereunto belonging 
with the appurtenances conteyning by estimation one acre and an halfe, 
more or less, and all that close of pasture-ground, with the appurtenances, 
commonly called the Close behind the house, conteyning by estimation two acres 
more or less, and ail those three yard-lands, with their and every of their appur- 
tenances, conteyning by estimation 50 acres, more or less, belonging to the said 
messuage or tenement, lying and being in Bampton aforesaid, now or late in the 
tenure or occupation of the said Jane Hanckes, her assignee or assigns. And all 
that messuage or tenement with the appurtenances, and also two yard lands and 
one halfe yard land with the appurtenances thereunto belonging, lying and being 
in Aston and Cotefeld within the said manor of Bampton, and now or late in the 
tenure or occupation of Thompson Hanckes, his assignee or assigns, and all that 
other messuage or tenement with the appurtenances and all that yard land 
and an halfe thereunto belonging, with the appurtenances, lying and being in 
Chimney within the said manor of Bampton, new or late in the tenure or occu- 
pation of Edmund Martin, his assignee or assigns, and all that other messuage or 
tenement with the appurtenances, and one quarter of a yard land thereunto be- 
longing, with the appurtenances, lying and being in Cannefield [Clanfield] 
within the said manor of Bampton, and now or late in the tenure or occupation 
of Simon Dyer, his assignee or asssignes, and all that other messuage or tene- 



APPENDIX, NO XVII. 33 

ment with the appurtenances, and one yard land thereunto belonging with the 
appurtenances, lying and being in Aston and Cotefield aforesaid, and now or late 
in the tenure or occupation of John Prior, his assignee ar assignes and all that 
cottage or tenement with the appurtenances situate, lying and being in Bamp- 
ton aforesaid, and now or late in the t. or o. of Edward Slade, his assignee 
or assigns, and all those three cottages with their and every of their appur- 
tenances situate and being near the vicarage of Bampton aforesaid, late in 
the t. or o. of Rous Clapton, his a. or a. and all that cottage or tenement 
with the appurtenances, situate and being in Bampton aforesaid, now or late 
in the t. or o. of Richard Pettifeir, his assignee or assigns, and all that other 
cottage or tenement with the appurtenances situate and being in Bampton 
aforesaid, nowe or late in the t. or o. of Robert Carpenter, his assignee or 
assigns, and all that other cottage or tenement, with the appurtenances, situate 
and being in Aston and Cotefield aforesaid, or one of them, and one halfe 
yard land thereunto belonging and appurtaining with the appurtenances 
now or late in the t. or o. of John Clerke, his a. or a. and all that other 
cottage or tenement there with the appurtenances now or late in the t. or o. 
of Richard Moore, his a. or a. and all houses, edifices, structures, buildings, 
barns, stables, outhouses, orchards, gardens, yards, curtilages, court-yards, 
back-sides, lands arable and not arable, meadows, leasowes, pastures, feedings, 
commons, and common of pasture, woods, underwoods, timber-trees and other 
trees, ways, passages, easements, waters, water-courses, profits, commodities, 
advantages, and appurtenances whatsoever to the several messuages or tenements 
lands and premises abovementioned, and to every or any of them or any part 
or parcel of them, or any of them belonging or in any wise appertaining, all 
which said premises are parcel of the manor of Bampton aforesaid and also 
the moiety of the said manor of Bampton, and of all and singular messuages, cot- 
tages, lands, tenements, meadows, leasowes, pastures, feedings, commons, grounds 
used for common, wastes and waste grounds thereunto belonging, other than and 
except the lands, tenements and hereditaments hereinafter mentioned to be 
excepted. 

And the said Sir John Wollaston, [&c. as before] in further execution of the 
said powers and trusts, and by the said warrant, and for the consideration afore- 
said, have granted, aliened, bargained, and sold, and by these presents do 
grant, alien, bargain and sell unto the said Jane Hanckes, her heirs and assigns 
the moiety of all Courts Baron, services, franchises, customes, custom- 
works, forfeitures, escheats, reliefs, heriots, fines, issues, amerciaments, fines upon 
descent or alienation, perquisites and profits of the said court, rivers, streams, wa- 
ters, water-courses, fishing, hawking, hunting, fowling, waifs, estrays, deodands, 
treasure-trove, goods and chattels of felons and fugitives, felons of themselves, 
outlawed and condemned persons, clerks convicted, and of persons put in exigents, 
rights, royalties, jurisdictions, liberties, privileges, immunities, profits, commodi- 
ties, advantages, rents, reversions, emoluments, possessions and hereditaments 
whatsoever to the said manor of Bampton, incident, belonging, or in anywise 
appertaining, and which the late Dean and Chapter of the late Cathedral Church 



34 HISTORY OF BAMPTOX., 

of St. Peter in Exon or any their predecessors in right of the late Deanery of 
Exon, or any other person or persons claiming by, from, or under them or any of 
them their or any of their estates at any time within the space of ten years next 
before the beginning of this present parliament or sithence had held used occu- 
pied or enjoyed within the said manor which said premises are mentioned in the 
particular thereof to have been late parcel of the possessions of the late Dean and 
Chapter of the said late Cathedral-church of Saint Peter in Exon in the County of 
Devon, and to have been together with the residue of the said manor of Bampton, 
by indenture bearing date the 12th day of June in the 17th year of the reign of 
the late king Charles demised by the late Dean and Chapter of the said late Ca- 
thedral-church of Saint Peter in Exon unto Robert Veysey gentleman, and Jane 
Hanckes, for the term of one and twenty years from the day of the date thereof, 
under the yearly rent of £ 16. 6s. 2d., the proportionable part of which said rent 
for the premises hereby granted is in the said particular mentioned to be £ 9. 6s. 
2d., as by the said particular, wherein the same premises hereby granted are 
mentioned to be upon improvement of the yearly value of fourscore and eight 
pounds ten shillings and eleven pence, over and above the said proportionable 
part of the said yearly rent reserved appears and the reversion andreversions, remain- 
der and remainders of the said moiety or halfendeale of the said manor, messuages or 
tenements, lands and premises and of every part and parcel thereof, except and al- 
ways reserved out of this present bargain, sale and conveyance all parsonages appro- 
priate, tithes appropriated, fee-farm rents, issuing out of tithes, oblations, ob- 
ventions, portions of tithes, parsonages, vicarages, churches, chapels, advowsons, 
donatives, nominations, rights of patronage and presentation and also except all 
that Court-leet and view of frankpledge, of and belonging to or usually held 
within the manor aforesaid and all fines, issues, amerciaments, profits, perquisites, 
commodities, advantages, emoluments, and appurtenances thereto incident or be- 
longing or in any wise appertaining, and which the late Dean and Chapter of the 
said late Cathedral-church of St. Peter in Exon, or any their predecessors in 
right of the late Deanery of Exon or any other person or persons, claiming by 
from or under them or any of them, their or any of their estates, at any time 
within the space of ten years next before the beginning of this present par- 
liament or sithence had held used occupied or enjoyed as belonging or apper- 
taining to the said court-leet and view of frankpledge and also except all lands, 
tenements, and hereditaments now or late parcel of the manor aforesaid, and now 
or late in the t. or o. of Robert Veysey esquire, his a. or a. by virtue of a deed of 
partition made between the said Jane Hanckes and the said Robert Veysey, bear- 
ing date the 20th day of May in the two and twentieth year of the reign of the 
late king Charles, and all such other things, as in and by the said acts or either 
of them are saved or excepted or appointed to be saved, or excepted, or not 
to be sold. 

TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the said moiety or halfendeale, of the said 
manor, messuages, lands, tenements, and hereditaments, and all and singular other 
the premises hereby granted, aliened, bargained or sold, or hereinbefore mention- 
ed to be hereby granted, aliened, bargained or sold, with their and every of their 



APPENDIX, NO XVIII. 35 

rights, members, and appurtenances, except before excepted, unto ye said Jane 
Hancks, her heirs and assigns for ever, to ye only use and behoof of ye said Jane 
Hanckes, her heirs and a. for ever as amply as ye said trustees or any of them 
by ye said Acts or either of them are enabled to convey the same, discharged of 
all demands, payments and incumbrances, as amply as by ye said Acts or 
either of them it is enacted or provided in that behalf. IN WITNESS whereof 
Ye said parties to these indentures interchangeably have set their seals, yeoven 
Ye day and year first above-written. 

ET MEMORAND. quod 20mo 8vo die Novembris, anno suprascripto praefatus 
Marcus Hildesley venit coram custode libertatis Angliae authoritate parliament! 
in cancellar. et recogn. inden. prsedict. ac omnia et singula in eadem content, et 
specificat in forma supra s crip ta. 

Irrotulatur XIIo die Decemb. anno prasdicto. 



XVIII. APPOINTMENT OF THE FIRST SCHOOL-MASTER TO THE 
FREE-SCHOOL OF BAMPTON, OCT. 10, 1653. 

To all true Christian people, to whom this present writing shall come, William 
Hodges, of Ripple, in Ye county of Wigorne, Clerk, William Veysey of Taynton 
in Ye county of Oxon, clothier, Thomas Willear of Bampton, in Ye said county 
of Oxon, mercer, and William Hancks of Bampton aforesaid, mercer, send greet- 
ing in our Lord God everlasting. 

Whereas Robert Veysey, late of Chimney in Ye par. of Bampton in Ye 
county of Oxon, gent, deceased, in and by his last will and testament, bearing 
date Ye first day of July, in Ye 11th year of Ye reign of Ye late king Charles, 
did give and bequeath to and for a free-school to be founded and erected in 
Bampton Ye sum of one hundred pounds for and towards Ye building thereof 
with A>hleane worke and also did give £ 200 more to be disposed of as his exe- 
cutors Mr. William Hodges, Mr. John Palmer and three others of Ye sufficients 
men in Bampton aforesaid should think fit concerning* Ye same school, And Ye 
said Robert Veysey by Ye same will did make nominate and appoint his nephew 
William Veysey of Burford in Ye said county of Oxon, clothier, his sole executor 
of that his last will and testament, as in and by his said last will and testa- 
ment more at large appeareth, Which said William Veysey did take upon him 
Ye burden of Ye said executorship and proved his said will in due form of law : 
and whereas afterwards it was ordered and decreed at Ye city of Oxon, in Ye 
said county of Oxon (that is to say) Ye 12th day of January, in Ye 13th year of 
Ye said late king Charles, by Richard Bayly, D. D., then vicechancellor of Ye 
University of Oxford, Henry Southam esq., then mayor of Ye city of Oxon, John 
Prideanx, D. D., Richard Zouch, Doctor of law, then chancellor to Ye then Bis- 
hop of Oxon, and John Whistler esq. upon an inquisition then and there taken 
before them, by Ye oaths of Thomas Speed, Anthony Edwards and eleven others 
good and lawful men of the said county of Oxon : by virtue of a commission 

7 



36 HISTORY OF BAMPTON, 

under the great seal of England, to them and others directed, that William Hod- 
ges, then of Bampton aforesaid, clerk, William Veysey, John Palmer, Edward 
Carter, Thomas Willier and William Hancks, or the major part of them and in 
case there should be equality of voices, then that part, on which the said William 
Veysey should give his voice or suffrage, should have the placing and election of 
the first school-master there : as in and by the said decree, amongst other things, 
more at large appeareth : sithence which, the said John Palmer and Edward Car- 
ter are deceased: now know ye that the said William Hodges, William Veysey, 
Thomas Willier, and William Hancks, the surviving electors of the first school- 
master of the said free-school, have elected placed and appointed, and hereby do 
elect, place and appoint William Jackson of Charlbury in the said county of Oxon, 
M. A. first schoolmaster of and in the said school, according to and in pursuance of 
the said decree, he the said school-master observing such rules and statutes as are 
made by the feoffees of the said school on his part to be done. 

In witness whereof we have hereunto put our hands and seals the 10th day of 
October in the year of our Lord 1653.— — Wm. Hodges. Rob. Veysey, per Wm. 
Veysey, executor, as above is written, Thomas Willear, Wm. Hanckes. 



XIX. INQUISITIONS TAKEN AT BAMPTON, A. D. 1680. 

Oxon scilicet inquisitions indented taken at Bampton, on Friday the 30th 
day of April, in the two and thirtieth year of the reign of our Sovereign Ld. Charles 
ye II, by the grace of God King of England, Scotland, France and Ireland, De- 
fender of the Faith, &c, Annoque Domini 1680. And from then adjourned to 
ye eight and twentieth day of May then next following, before Henry Alworth 
Dr. m Law, Robert Perrot, Thomas Hord, John Gower, John Gunne Esq. and 
Richard Dew Gentlemen. 

By virtue of ye King's majesty's commission issuing out of His majesty's high 
and honorable court of Chancery bearing date at Westminster ye seventeenth 
day of February in the two and thirtieth year of Ms now majesty's Reign to 
them and others directed for the inquiring of the mis employment of Lands, 
Tenements and Hereditaments, goods, Chattels, and stocks of money heretofore 
given to charitable uses according to the statutes made ia the three and thir- 
tieth year of the Reign of the late Queen Elizabeth in that case made and 
provided by the oaths of Daniel Warwick of Kelmscott, John Williams, John 
Williams Jun., Edward Ricketts, William Faulkner, Phillip Turner, William Tur_ 

ner, Nicholas Constable, William Bryan, Peter ate, John Tremaine, Robert 

Stevens, Alexander May, William Castle, John Clarke and John Taylor, good and 
lawful men of the said County who being returned impannelled elected and sworn 
according to the said statute and commission do say upon their oaths as 
followeth ; 

BAMPTON. — First they present and say upon their oaths that John Palmer 
late of Weald in the par. of Bampton in the County of Oxon Gent., deceased 



APPENDIX, NO XIX. 37 

did by his last will and testament bearing date the three and twentieth day of 
October in the year of our Lord 1650, give to the use of the poor, within the town- 
ships of Bampton and Weald only, the sum of £ 100 to be disposed of among the 
said poor by Bartholomew Coxeter Gent., John Trinder, Robert Right, and Wil- 
liam Collingwood of Bampton aforesaid, Yeomen or the survivors or survivor of 
them. And they do further present and say that the said John Palmer some short 
time after the making of his said will died, upon whose death the said £ 100 waa 
paid and came to the hands of the said Bartholomew Coxeter who detained the 
same about the space of five years and paid no part of the said money or the 
interest thereof to or for the use of the poor of Bampton and Weald according to 
the said last will of the said John Palmer, upon which by virtue of a commission 
of charitable uses directed to several gentlemen commissioners for the said coun- 
ty the said commissioners ordered the said Bartholomew Coxeter to pay the £ 100 
and the interest thereof then due and in arrears unto the said John Trinder, 
which was accordingly paid. And they do further present and say upon their 
oaths that the said sum of £ 100 and also the sum of £ 28 being the interest money 
of the said £ 100, is now in the hands and possession of the said John Trinder 
and they do further say that the said Bartholomew Coxeter, Robert Right, Willi- 
am Collingwood are since the making of the said will dead and that the said John 
Trinder is the only surviving Trustee. 

ITEM they do further present and say upon their oaths that Richard Bla- 
grove late of Bampton in the said county of Oxon Yeoman deceased did after 
he had made his last will and testament in writing declare upon his death-bed his 
intention to have given to the use of the poor of Bampton aforesaid and Weald, 
the sum of £ 10 in the presence of Joan his wife and executrix of his said will, 
and they do further present that the said Joan his executrix voluntarily declared 
the same and desired that the said £ 10 might be by her paid into the hands of 
the Church-wardens and overseers of the poor of Bampton and Weald to be by 
them disposed of and placed out at interest for the use ' of the poor of Bampton 
and Weald for ever but withal did declare her intention that it should be to such 
uses in bread or otherwise for the said poor and to such of them during her life as 
she should nominate direct or appoint. 

ITEM they do farther present and say upon their oatha that Robert Dale late 
of Weald in the parish of Bampton in the county of Oxon. gent., deceased 
did, by his last will and testament under his hand and seal, bearing date the 10th 
day of August in the year of our Lord 1658, give and bequeath unto the 
poor of Aston and Coate, in the said county of Oxon five pounds to remain in his 
executrix's hands and she to pay six shillings for the use of it every year 
so long as she should live and afterwards to be put into the hands of some honest 
trustees to remain for ever paying to the poor of Aston and Coate what benefit 
the money would bring yearly for the use of it, and they do further present that 
the executrix is since dead, and that upon her death the said sum of five pounds 
came to the hands and custody of Thomas Dale her executor who hath Ye said 
five pounds in his hands. 

ITEM they do further present and say, upon their oaths, that Edward Cotten, 



38 HISTORY OF BAMPTON, 

late of Silverlon clerk deceased, did by his last will and testament, bearing date the 
16th day of December, anno Domini 1674 and afterwards proved in due form of 
law, the 27th day of May, in the year of our Lord 1676, give unto the poor 
house lodgers of Bampton and Weald the sum of fifty pounds, his will being that 
it should be put out on good security by ye overseers and churchwardens of ye 
said parish and the interest thereof paid to such parishioners as are not chargea- 
ble to the parish, and who duly frequent their church, and receive there the Holy 

Sacrament of the Lord's supper and to such persons of honest religious 

lives as may encourage industry and piety provided always that no one have 
less than half a crown and no one more than ten shillings, the money to be dis- 
posed of by and with the consent of the three vicars and to such persons as they 
shall appoint, reposing such confidence in them that they will not by partiality 
misplace his charity or dispose of what he gave, to ease ye parish thereby of that 
relief which is due from them to the poor, and they do further present and say 
upon their oaths that John Cotten of Boscastle in the county of Cornwall, esquire, 
did, the said 21st day of May, in ye year of our Lord 1676, prove the said will 
and testament and took upon him ye burden thereof and possessed himself of the 
goods and chattels of the said Edward Cotten deceased to the value of £ 1149. 8s. 
and that ever since the probate of the said will the said John Cotten hath 
detained ye said sum of £ 50, with the interest thereof in his hands. 

ITEM they do further present and say, upon their oaths, that Dr. William Os- 
borne deceased by his will did give a hundred pounds to ye use of ye poor of 
Bampton aforesaid to be bestowed in binding out of apprentices as it should seem 

good to any two of ye vicars to be together with Mr. John Palmer there 

and they do further find that ye said sum of 

£ 100 is now in the hands and custody of Stephen Phillips Dr. of Divinity 
one of the vicars of Bampton, together with twenty pounds there made and 
raised out of the interest thereof. 

Also ye said day of adjournment, videlicet ye 28th day of May, anno Domi- 
ni 1680, and from thence adjourned to ye 7th day of June then next following, be- 
fore us, H. Alworth, Dr. in law, Th. Hord, Rob. Perrott, and J. Gunn, esqs., and 
Richard Dewe, gent., commissioners by virtue of the statute and commission before 
mentioned. The Jurors aforesaid, upon their oaths, present and say that ye sum 
of £ 10, with ye interest thereof, now in ye hands of John Collingwood and Edith 
Sheppard, as executors to William Collingwood mentioned in their bonds bearing 
date ye last day of October, anno Domini 1656, and that ye sum of £ 10 with 
ye interest thereof, now in the hands of Henry Cooke and Simon Colling- 
wood mentioned in their bond, bearing date ye 18th day of April, Anno 
Domini 1674, and that ye sum of £ 20, with ye interest thereof, now in ye 
hands of Henry Allen and John Bennett ye younger mentioned in their bonds, 
bearing date ye 11th day of April, anno Domini 1675 and that ye sum of £ 10, 
with ye interest thereof, now in ye hands of Robert Sid well and John Sidwell, 
executors of Ellen Sidwell his mother deceased mentioned in their bond bearing 
date ye 22nd day of October, in ye year of our Lord 1673 and that ye sum of 
£ 70, with ye interest thereof, now in ye hands of Powdrell Hurst and John 



APPENDIX, NO XIX. 39 

Gower, esquires, mentioned in their bond bearing date Ye first day of May, anno 
Domini 1670 and that Ye sum of £50, with Ye interest thereof, now in Ye 
hands of William Nabbs and John Nabbs, mentioned in their bond, bearing date 
the 2nd day of May, anno Domini 1677, and that Ye sum of £ 50, now in Ye 
hands of John Gower esq. and George Gower, gent., with Ye interest thereof, 
mentioned in their bond, bearing date Ye 12th day of May anno Domini 1677, 
and that the sum of £ 20 with Ye interest thereof, now in Ye hands of William 
Greene, all which said several sums so mentioned and expressed as aforesaid, do 
belong to Ye use of Ye school of Bampton by Ye devise of Robert Veysey, late of 
Chimney, gent., deceased, and also by Ye devise of John Palmer, late of Weald, 
gent., deceased, and by Ye devise of H. Coxeter, late of Weald, 'gent., deceased. 

ITEM They farther present and say, upon the oath of Daniel Warwick, and 
the information of Richard Coxeter gent., that there is fourteen foot of ground 
in length on the west end of the free school of Bampton lying towards a cottage of Mr. 
Richard Dewe's, that belongs to Ye said free school, and lying between a stone wall 
of Dr. Phillips to Ye north and a mud wall to Ye south, of Ye same length. 

APRIL the 30th, Anno Domini 1680 it is ordered, adjudged and decreed 
by the commissioners appointed as aforesaid, that the £ 5 mentioned in the 
inquisition to be given by Robert Dale by his will above-recited be paid by Tho- 
mas Dale Ye executor of Ye executrix unto John Moulden,John Williams Ye elder, 
John Williams Ye younger, of Coate in this county yeoman, and Edward Rickotts 
of Aston yeomen, whom we appoint trustees for Ye said poor, and to be by them Ye 

trustees disposed of and placed out for Ye uses expressed in Ye said 

and that Ye receipt of Ye said trustees for Ye said £5 be a sufficient dis- 
charge to Ye said Thomas Dale for ever. 

APRIL Ye 30th Anno Domini 1690. We Ye commissioners aforesaid do 
farther order, adjudge and decree that Ye £10 mentioned to be given in Ye 
inquisition by Richard Blagrove to Ye use of Ye poor of Bampton and Weald. 
be by Jone his wife and executrix paid into the hands of Ye Churchwardens and 
overseers of the poor of Bampton and Weald aforesaid to be by them dis- 
posed of and placed out at interest for the use of the poor of Bampton and 
Weald aforesaid for ever but to such uses in bread or otherwise for the said poor, 
and to such of them during the life of the said Jone as she shall direct and 
and appoint. 

At the said day of adjournment, that is to say Ye 28th day of May, Anno 
Domini 1680, we, Ye commissioners aforesaid, do farther order, adjudge, and 
decree that for Ye better settling and continuing of Ye several sums before- 
mentioned in Ye inquisition of £ 10 with Ye interest thereof to be in Ye 
hands of John Collingwood and Edith Sheppard as executors of William Col- 
lingwood, and Ye sum of £10 with Ye interest thereof, to be in Ye hands of 
Henry Cooke and Simon Collingwood and the sum of £ 20 with Ye interest thereof, 
to be in the hands of Henry Allen and John Bennett the younger ; and the sum 
of £ 10, and the interest thereof, to be in the hands of Robert Sidwell and John 
Sidwell execut. of Ellen Sidwell his mother deceased and Ye sum of £ 70, with 
Ye interest thereof to be in Ye hands of Povvdrell Hurst and John 



40 HISTORY OF BAMPTON, 

Gower esquire, and Ye sum of £ 50, with Ye interest thereof, to be 
in the hands of William Nabbs and John Nabbs and the sum of £ 20, 
with the interest thereof, to be in the hands of William Greene, be by the 
several persons before-mentioned forthwith paid into the hands of Stephen Phil- 
lips Doctor in Divinity, Arthur Rury Doctor in Divinity, and Thomas Snell Clerk, 
the present vicars of the parish-church of Bampton and their successors, Thomas 
Hord esquire, John Gower esquire, Robert Mayott of Fawlor gent, Richard Dew 
the elder of Bampton, gent., Robert Veisey of Tanton gent, Thomas Tremayne 
the younger gent., Richard Lissett, John Nabbs and William Young, whom we 
nominate and appoint trustees for the receiving thereof and the said trustees or 
the major part of them to dispose and lay out the same in lands and tenements of 
fee-simple, and that the said trustees or the major part of them do contract and 
agree with the party or parties of whom the said lands and tenements shall or 
may be bought and purchased to convey by the advice of Counsel learned in the 
Law such lands and tenements so to be purchased unto the said trustees and their 
heirs upon trust and confidence, that the said trustees shall pay and dispose the 
clear yearly value of Ye said lands and tenements so to be purchased to the 
schoolmaster belonging to the said parish of Bampton for the time being and his 

successors, and with a covenant or proviso in the said deed of purchase 

shall think fit that so soon as eight of the before-mentioned trustees are or 
shall be dead, ye surviving trustees shall enfeoff and convey to twelve other trustees 
and their heirs, the vicars of Bampton for the time being to be three of the 
said trustees upon and under the same trust, covenants, and provisoes con- 
tained in the said conveyance, and in like manner after the death of eight 
trustees the survivors shall enfeoff and convey to twelve others, and their 
heirs, the vicars of Bampton for the time being to be three of the trustees 
upon and under like trust, covenants and provisoes before-mentioned, and so after 
the death of eight of the trustees the survivors to enfeoff and convey to twelve 
others the vicars of Bampton for the time being to be three of the said trustees, to 
continue the said trust and so the said trust in like manner to be continued 
for ever. 

At the day of adjournment that is to say the 28th day of May, anno Domini 
1680, we the commissioners aforesaid do farther order, adjudge and decree that 
the said store of ground mentioned in the inqusition to belong to the free school of 
Bampton be observed and livered of the bodies of the said Mr. Richard Dew, 
in the inquisition mentioned as the Richard Dew, and of the parishi- 
oners of the parish of Bampton. 

AT the day of adjournment, that is to say the 28th day of May anno Domini 
1680 we the commissioners aforesaid do farther order, adjudge and decree by and 
with ye consent of John Trinder in the inquisition mentioned that for the better set- 
tling and continng of ye sum of £ 120 mentioned in ye inquisition to be in ye hands 
of ye said John Trinder that he ye said J. Trinder do within six days next ensuing, 
after notice of the said decree, give security by bond for the said sum of £ 120 
now in his hands, unto Richard Lissett, John Nabbs, William Young, Thomas 
Tremaine, Thomas Burdock, John Carter the elder, 



APPENDIX, NO XX. 41 

Thomas Hall, all of Bampton aforesaid, Richard Wright, William Sadler of 
Weald yeomen, whom we nominate and appoint trustees for the receiving 
thereof and the said trustees or the major part of them to dispose and lay- 
out the same in lands and tenements of fee-simple, and that the said trus- 
tees or the major part of them do contract and agree with the party or 
parties, of whom the said lands or tenements shall or may he bought and 
purchased, to convey, by the advice of counsel learned in the law, such lands 
and tenements so to be purchased, unto the said trustees and their heirs, 
upou trust and confidence that the said trustees shall pay and dispose the 
clear yearly value of the said lands and tenements so to be purchased to the 
poor of Bampton and Weald, and not one person or family to have above 
live shillings at a time and with a covenant or proviso in the said deeds of 
purchase, as counsel shall think fit, that so soon and so often as six of the 
before-mentioned trustees are or shall be dead, the surviving trustees shall enfeoff 
and convey to nine other trustees and their heirs, upon and under the like 
trusts covenants and provisos before-mentioned. And after the death of six trus- 
tees the survivors to enfeoff and convey to nine others to continue the said trust ... 

to be in like manner transferred from time to time for ever 

And that out at interest by the said trustees until such purchase 

be had disposed of to the poor as aforesaid And that the acquit- 
tance or said trustees or the major part of them shall be a good 

discharge to the said purposes. 

In Witness whereof as well the said commissioners, as the said trustees 

have set their hands and seals the 7th day of June, anno Domini 1681. 

Tremayne March the 18th, 1681. Recd., then and before, seventeen 

pounds, nineteen shillings and eleven pence in full of the 

charges and expenses for carrying on and managing of this 

business in full, by me, THO. TREMAYNE. 



XX. HUDSON'S PAMPHLET ON THE CHARITIES OF BAMPTON 
AND WEALD, (reprinted from the edition of 1814.) 

[Title page.] 
A brief statement of the several charitable gifts and donations for the 
benefit of the poor of Bampton and Weald, With particular directions 
how the rents and profits are to be applied According to the several 
Deeds, Wills, and Decrees. 

To which is added An account of the Lands appropriated for the use 
of Repairing the Church Interspersed with remarks and observations, 
God is a spirit just and wise, He sees with piercing sight, 
How dare we then the poor despise, And keep from them their right. 
Rob not the poor, because of their poverty, but pity and have mercy on them. Sol* 

Bampton, Oxon; Printed by W. Holloway,for the late Mr. Hudson. 
1801. And reprinted at request, Dec. 30th 1814. (Price Sixpence.) 



42 HISTORY OF BAMPTON, 

[Page. 2.] TO THE READER. 

As most Authors say something in defence of the works they publish, it may probably be ex- 
pected that I should give my reasons for compiling the folio-wing memorandums. 

Suffice it then to say, that my principal design was, to rescue from oblivion, the rights of the 
poor to the several charitable Donations ; in the prosecution of which subject I have been actua- 
ted by the purest motives, That of Benevolence to my fellow creatures in the lower orders of 
society. For having a long time observed with concern, the numberless abuses and mis-manage- 
ment that too frequently attend the distribution of charitable Donations in general, but more par- 
ticularly those belonging to our own poor I was induced to collect and publish, from the best and most 
authentic information I possible could procure, an account of all the existing charities, with the 
quantity and rents of the several Estates etc. How far I have succeeded in the attempt I shall 
leave to better judges than myself to determine. 

I hope however, that the work imperfect as it is, will meet the approbation of the candid, and 
be a means of stimulating the new Trustees, as well as the old Churchwardens, to a faithful dis- 
charge of their duty in this important affair. By settling their accounts annually, and leaving the 
Books open for public Inspection, then, and not 'till then, may we expect to" hear of no more 
complaining in our Streets, and Alehouses, of the abuse and mis-application of the poor's money 
as it is call'd, but on the contrary, all would be peace harmony and concord. That this in future 
may be the case, Is the Sincere wish of your Humble Servant R. Hudson. Bampton, May 15th, 1801. 

[Page 3.] CHARITIES, &c. 
Thompsons gift. 

Heaven hath my soul, in purest joy and bliss, 
Earth hath my earth where body toomed is, 
Poor have my store, for ever to their use ; 
Friends have my name : to keep without abuse, 
Heaven, Earth, Poor, Friends of me have all their part, 
And this in life was chiefest joy of heart. 

George Thompson Esq. who died in the year 1603, — by his will gave 
to the poor of Bampton, TFeald, and Leio, Six Pounds a year for ever : 
charfd upon a house and lands at Brize-Norton, — in the occupation of 
Francis Hall, and Charles Gillett ; which sum is directed to be distribu- 
ted in the South Porch, by the Church Wardens and Overseers, on 
Whitsunday, and St. Thomas the Apostle, by equal portions ; — But no 
part of this Charity has been distributed on Whitsunday, in the memory of 
the writer of this work. 

Wilmot's gift. 

Leonard Wilmot of Clanfield Gent., who died in the year 1608, gave 
to the poor of Bampton and Weald, forty shillings a year for ever charged 
upon an estate at Clanfield, called [P. 4] Chest-Lion Farm, — now in the 
occupation of Mr. Pope ; which sum is directed by his will to be distributed 
by the Church-wardens to the most industrious poor, on Good Friday in 
every year. But shameful to relate, not a shilling of it has been given to 
the poor 'till within these five or six years past, although it has been regu- 
larly received by the Church -wardens. This I assert as a real fact, as I 
was the only person at a vestry who remonstrated against the mis-applica- 
tion of this charity, as well as some of the other gifts.* 

Appleton estate. 

John, alias Julian Walter of Appleton in the county of Berks, Gent., 

* Tradition says that this Gentleman in the former part of his life was a menial servant, in which capa - 
city he lived about 20 years in several different parishes in the Counties of Oxford and Berks, to the poor 
of which, he bequeathed an annual donation of as many pounds as he continued to live years in each place. 
— To Bampton he gave two pounds, — to Clanfield three pounds, — to Burford and Witney four 
pounds each. 



APPENDIX, NO XX. 43 

who died in the year 1636, by his Will gave to the poor of Bampton & 
Weald, an estate of eighteen pounds per annum consisting of a house, 
barn, and homestead, about twenty four acres of arable land, one acre 
and a half of pasture, and four cow commons, now in the occupation of 
Willi- [P. 5] am Clanfield ; the rents of which are directed to be laid out in 
wheaten bread, & distributed every Sunday after divine service to the most 
necessitous poor ; excepting Eight shillings, which sum (a great one in the 
days of the donor) is to provide a dinner for the Church -Ward ens and 
Overseers on Holy-Thursday. t Present rent, 50 pounds per annnm. 
Lower Moor Close, and Lake-riddy Close. 

Containing in the whole about twelve acres the rents of which are, 
[according to a table published by the late Mr. Frederick,] to be divided 
into thirty three parts ; eight parts of which are to be paid to the Church- 
wardens and Overseers, and by them distributed to the poor of Bampton 
and Weald, and the remaining twenty five parts to be paid to the Trus- 
tees, and by them given to [P. 6] the poor ; No person or family to have 
above five shillings at any one time. These Closes it seems were purchased 
by donations [the most considerable of which was that given by Mrs. 
Hanks, otherwise LoderJ for the use of the poor, in or about the 
year 1687. Present rent 27 pounds per annum. 

Upper Moor Close, Sf Brookfast Furlong Close. 

The former called four acres, the latter six acres, the rents of which 
are directed to be applied as follows viz. one fourth part to be paid to 
the Church-wardens to be by them laid out in two-penny loaves and 
given to the poor every Sunday after divine service ; ( has this been pro- 
perly attended to? ) one other fourth part to be paid to the Yicars for the 
purpose of apprenticing poor Boys, and an eighth part to be paid like- 
wise to the Yicars, and distributed at their discretion, to such persons as 
frequent the Church and sacrament, and are not chargeable to the 
parish; J [P. 7] and the residue thereof to be paid to the Church-wardens, for 
the purpose of buying bread to be distributed to the most industrious poor. 
Present rent of the Moor Close, is 21 pounds per annum, and Brook- 
fast furlong Close 27 pounds. 

Shilton estate, berks, 

This Estate consists of a Messuage or Tenement and Barn, a small 
Close of pasture well timbered, and upwards of twenty-five acres of in- 

+ A very singular circumstance respecting this Gentleman is handed down to us, and is as fol- 
lows. Having but few or no relations that he esteem'd or respected, he resolved to bequeath his 
property to charitable uses; but not having a regard for one Parish in preference to another, he 
seemed to be at a loss on whom to bestow it. standing however one day on an eminence near 
the said village which commands a most extensive prospect, he beheld four different Churches ; 
namely, Bampton, Ensham, Witney and Standlake, to the poor of which places he gave considerable 
Estates. 

1 I am sorry to observe that there are very few persons of this Character now to be found. To those 
however that may happen to come under this description, all due encouragement, in my humble opi- 
nion, ought to be given to them. 

8 



41 HISTORY OF BAJli'TON, 

closed arable land, with a quantity of meadow ground adjoining to the Ri- 
ver Isis, now in the occupation of Thomas Bunce, the rents of which are 
directed to be appropriated for the apprenticing poor Children to some 
good trades in Loudon or the suburbs thereof [and not else where] as 
the Trustees or the major part of them shall think fit, and as far as the 
rents and profits will extend. This Estate it seems was purchased by 
subscription, in or about the year 1706, and the Trustees first appointed 
were the Vicars of Bampton for the time being, Mrs. Mary Crofts and 
her heirs, and Mr. Richard Coxeter and his heirs. Present rent 24 pounds 
per annum. 

[P. 8] Widows estate 
Mn. Edward Church who died in the year 1771, gave an 
Estate which is situated in AVeald, and known by the name of Sones 
Lands, of the value of fourteen pounds per annum. In trust, to apply 
the rents and profits thereof to six poor widows of Weald, to be nomina- 
ted yearly at Easter by four of the most substantial inhabitants of Bamp- 
ton and Weald; which said charity for several years after the death of the 
Donor was applied as his. will directed. But he having neglected to 
comply with the Statute of the 9th, G. 2. chap : 36 commonly called 
the Statute of Mortmain, § his heir at Law, claimed the Estate as his 
Right and property; and the parish of Bampton judging it useless to 
litigate the matter left Mr. Church's heir in the uninterrupted enjoyment 
[if it may be so called,] of what the letter of the law furnish'' d 
him with. 

[P. 9] Having thus taken a view of the several Charity Estates, and 
given a particular account how the rents and profits of the same are to 
be applied, 

We shall next state the LEGACIES Which have heen given for the Poor, and 
the first that comes under consideration is the Bequest of 

Mrs. MARY DEWE ; who by her will gave to the Yicars of Bamp- 
ton, her Sister Mrs. Jane Dewe, Thomas Trollope Brown, and Gasc : 
Frederick Esquires, the sum of two hundred pounds In trust, to be 
applied by them, then Executors or Administrators, in employing the 
poor in some manufactory, under such rules and regulations as they 
should think fit, or should hereafter be established by parliament. This 
Gentlewoman died in the year 1763 which is 38 years ago, and notwith- 
standing the great distance of time, but little has yet been done with 
this sum, either for the benefit or employment of the poor. Strange ! sur- 
prising strange ! that no one Gentleman in Bampton will exert himself 
on this occasion. The Eev. Mr. Hawkins in whose hands the princi- 

§ This Statute enacts "That no Land or Tenements shall be given or charged with any charitable 
use whatsoever unless by deed indented, and executed in the presence of two witnesses, twelve calen- 
der months before the death of the Donor, and enrolled in Chancery six months after its execution." 



APPENDIX, NO XX. 45 

pal sum remains is [if I am imformed a- [P. 10] right] willing to give 
it up whenever it can be done with propriety and safety. 
Mes. Snell's legacy. 

This Lady was relict of the Eev. Thomas Snell, formerly one of the 
Yicars of Bampton, who by her will gave to Edward Whitaker, William 
Eoberts, and the Eev. Francis Smith, the sum of two hundred pounds, 
In trust, that they place it out upon good security, and annually distri- 
bute the interest thereof to the poor of Bampton. — She died in 
the year 1788. 

Mr. Leverett's legacy. 

This Gentleman was formerly an eminent Surgeon at Witney ; who 
by his will gave to John Wright and Samuel Druce, the sum of fifty 
pounds, due to him on the security of the Tolls on the Turnpike road 
between Bampton and Witney ; In trust, that they permit his wife to 
receive the interest thereof during her life, and after her decease to pay 
the same to the Church- wardens and Overseers of the poor of Bampton ; 
to be by them laid out in bread and distributed at their discretion to the 
poor, monthly or weekly for [P. 11] ever. % Not a shilling of the in- 
terest of this sum has been received since the death of Mrs. Leverett, 
which happened in February, 1793. 

Mrs. Susanna Frederick's Legacy 

This Lady who died in May 1789, gave by her will to the most dis- 
tressed labouring poor, the interest of two hundred pounds, due to her 
upon Bond from Mrs. Leybourn late of Westwell in this County, dated 
in or about June 1784, which sum if I am rightly informed, is directed 
to be laid out in linen and shoes, and distributed as her Executor shall 
think fit. But as Mrs. Leybourn before her death became insolvent, 
the Charity intended becomes void of course. Mrs. Frederick has also 
by her will bequeathed the sum of one Guinea yearly, for a sermon to be 
preached on Good Friday for ever. The subject to be on the merits, 
death and passion of our blessed redeemer. And thus much for Legacies. 

We procead next to speak of the several Schools, and their endow- 
ments, and first of the free school which Avas founded by Eobert Vey- 
sEy Esquire, heretofore of Chimney in [P. 12] this County § and en- 
dowed by him and others in or about the year for the instruc- 
tion and education of all Boys that are fit to be taught Latin in the 
parish of Bampton, aud its several Hamlets, namely — Weald, Lew, 
Haddon, Aston, Coat, Chimney, Yelford, Shifford, and Brighthamp- 
ton. — But whether the master is by the foundation Eules and Orders 
of the said School, obliged to teach all sucli Boys that shall be sent to 
him free of expence, or whether he has not a right to demand something 

\ He died Feb. 15th, 1609, and was interred st Shifford. 



46 HISTORY OP BAMPTON, 

for their education is what I am at a loss to determine with precision. 
— I shall therefore only observe farther, that the late Reverend Mr. 
Middleton, who was Master of this School upwards of Piety years, de- 
manded Half a Grown for entrance and one Shilling per quarter for 
each Boy placed on the Foundation, and the Rev. Mr. Smith, who suc- 
ceeded him had Five Shillings entrance and Five Shillings per quarter, 
so that there seems to be nothing fix'd or certain respecting this matter, 
nor is the masler's salary more permanent or settled than the terms seem 
to be for teaching. This depends intirely on the rent of the [P. 13] three 
Closes, which are now let at the enormous sum of fifty pounds ten shil- 
lings per annum, being more than double the former rents. 

But we pass on to observe that to this School is annexed an English 
one, for the education of ten Boys in Reading, Writing and Arithmetic, 
which was endowed by Mrs. Mary Frederick, and her Sisters in the year 
1783; the Salary of 'which [if I am rightly informed] is Sixteen pounds 
per annum, being the interest, arising from four hundred pounds stock 
in the four per cent Consols. Aud the late Mrs. Susanna Frederick 
has, by her will, bequeathed the interest of two hundred pounds, new 
South Sea Annuities for the support of the Sunday School at Bamptou 
for ever. There is also another Charity School in this Town, for the 
instruction of six Boys and six Girls, in the tirst rudimeuts of Learning, 
said to be endowed by Mrs. Mary Crofts ; § who was Aunt to the late 
Fredrick's family. The Salary is about five pounds per annum; but 
in what year or how long it is since this little School was first established, 
I have not as yet been able to learn. 

Thus have I given from the most authentic information, I possibly 
could collect, a particular account of all the existing Charities, that 
have been given for the use and benefit of the poor. We shall next pro- 
ceed agreeably to our plan, briefly to describe the several Estates given 
for the repairs of the Church ; and the first that we shall mention is 
that occupied by Leonard Carter, which consists of a Close adjoining to 
Clanfield Lane, containing four acres, six cow commons in 'Weald mea- 
dow, and one acre of arable land lying in a place called moor furlong, 
Present rent nine pounds per annum. 

Secondly, Three acres of arable Land occupied by William Townsend, 
two of which lie in Wright's field, in the furlong shooting towards 
Barn-Ley, the other acre or rather two lands, are in moor furlong, Pre- 
sent rent two Guineas a year. 

Thirdly, Two acres or more properly four Lands in Bampton field, one 
hying in each field, now occupied by John Probits, at the yearly rent of 
one pound nine shillings. Fourthly, A Close of pasture at Lew, situate 

§ She died in October, 1719. 



APPENDIX, NO XX. 47 

[P. 1 5] near the premises of the late John Hinton, containing by estimation 
three acres, now in the occupation of John Collingwood, at the yearly 
rent of five Pounds. * 

I might here, offer some further remark on the abuse of charitable 
Donations in general, but having far exceeded the bounds of my intended 
plan, I shall conclude by just observing, that [P. 16] there are or were four 
other houses belonging to the parish said to be situate in a part of the 
Town called Rosemary Lane; but I cannot say which are the said 
houses, or whether they are now standing or fallen down. 
A Recapitulation of Ike several Rents, Gifts, 8fc. mentioned in the fore- 
going work. 

Appleton Estatate, per annum 

Lower moor Close, and Lake-Eiddy Close 

Upper moor Close 

Brookfast furlong Close 

Shilton Estate 

Thompson's Gift 

Wilrnot's Gift 

Mrs. Dewe's Legacy at 5 per. C. 

Mrs. Swell's at Ditto 

Mr. Leverett's, at 4$ per cent 

Total £179 5 

A large Sum, which if properly applied might he the means of doing much 
good. But let not the poor make these Charities a pretence to Idleness, but let 
them learn to be frugal, honest, and industrious ; then, with the blessing of God 
and the assistance of these Charities, they might support themselves, except in 
very dear times, without relief from the Parish. Finis 



XXI. ORDERS AND STATUTES FOR THE FREE SCHOOL AT 

BAMPTON, IN THE COUNTY OF OXON, AS AGREED ON BY 

THE VISITORS, JAN. 14, 1731-2. 

These statutes are copied from a printed paper, and are here given as a curiosity, for there is no proof 
that they possess any authority. 

1. That the School-master be orthodox for religion, and of a godly con- 
versation. 



50 








27 








2L 








27 








24 








6 








2 








10 








10 








2 


5 






* On the north west end of thislClose, are standing two houses with large gai*dens adjoining, the one 
occupied by .Taines Saunders, the other by William Hoar the former of which the late Farmer Hanks 
lived in many years without paying any rent, or acknowledgement for the same, and when he removed 
to Banipton, he left his Son Thomas in the quiet possession thereof, who resided in it several years, 
and afterward sold it to James Saunders for the sum of twelve Guineas. The other house has within 
these few years past been bought and sold three or four, times, for Seventeen or Eighteen pounds each 
time. There was also another house standing a few years ago on this very spot ; but it having fallen 
greatly to decay, — was taken down, and the occupier whose name was Brooks, sold most of the mate- 
rials to a late opulent Farmer at Lew. These notwithstanding they have been claimed by the present, 
and former occupiers, as their own, are undoubtedly parish houses ; for I am very well informed, they 



4S 

2. That he be well qualified to teach the Latin and Greek tongues. 

3. That there be Morning and Evening Prayers in a Godly Precompos'd set 
form duly observed. 

4. That on Wednesdays and Fridays and all Saint's Days the School-master 
bring or cause to be brought all his scholars to Prayers in the Parish Church, and 
see that they be taught their catechisms according to the Form of the church of 
England, with some proper explanation of the same. 

5. That the Hours of school be from 6 o' clock to 11 in the morning, and 
from 1 to 5 in the afternoon all the summer time, Viz. — From Lady-day to 
Michaelmas, and in winter from 8 o' clock to eleven, in the Morning, and 
from 1 till 4 in the afternoon. 

6. That all boys fit to be taught Latin of the parish of Bampton, viz. Bam- 
ton, Weald, Lew, Haddon, Aston, Coate, Chimney, Shifford, Bright-hampton, 
and Yelford, be admitted in the said school paying each of 'em to the Master 
2 shillings and sixpence for entrance, and afterwards quarterly, 1 shilling. 

7. If the School-master shall think fit to teach English, such scholars, so 
taught shall pay 5 shillings entrance, and 5 shillings quarterlv; and shall be 
obliged to pay for a whole quarter, if they come to school any part 
thereof. 

8. Thai the schoolmaster constantly reside in the town of Bampton, and in 
case he shall accept of any preferment inconsistent with such residence, then 
his place shall be ipso facto void, as if he was naturally dead, and the 
Visitors shall proceed to a new Election. 

1819 Rent of the school-closes, say — £40 10 s. per annum. 
School-house, Cottage, &c. 12 



XXII. INSCRIPTIONS FROM BAMPTON CHURCH AND 
CHURCH-YARD. 

AINSLEY, Eliza William, daughter of William and Eliza Ainsley of Bengal ; 

died June 29, 1 806, aged 2 days. 
Amphlett, Rev. Dr. Joseph, many years vicar of Bampton. Mary his wife 

dr. of John Amson of Lees in the co. of Chester, esq. This monument was 

erected by their niece Eliza Buckworth. 
Andrews, Mary and Elizabeth, drs. of Charles and Elizabeth A. Mary d. Oct. 6, 

1769, in infancy, Elizabeth d. Dec. 1, 1791, aged 17. 

Joseph, Esq. and Ann his w. He d. Dec. 30, 1806 : she d. Jan. 12, 1802. 

Joseph, jun. Esq. d. Ap. 22, 1828. 

John, s. of Wm. and Elizabeth, d. Feb. 24. 1819, aged 1 y. and 9 m. 

■ Wm. s. of Wm. and Elizabeth, d. Oct. 18, 1841, aged 36. 

Charles, d. Jan, 3. 1803, aged 83. Elizabeth w. of Charles, d. 

used to be repaired by part of the Timber that growed on the said Close : and according to Mr. Frede- 
rick's Table, a lease of these Houses and the Land belonging to the Church, was made in the 
year 1672 by the then Feoffees. To -which may be added five cow commons in Lew heath, and a 
Land in Lew field, said to be part and parcel of this Estate, which Commons &• Land have been 
in the possession of the Hanks's Family, more thau half a Century. 



APPENDIX, NO XXI. 49 

April 18, 1805, aged 39. Robert, son of Ch. and Elizabeth, d. Feb. 11, 1841, 

aged 64. Ruth his wife, died April 17, 1846, aged 61. Mary-Ann their dr. 

died Dec. 23, 1845, aged 19. 
Andrews Joseph, d. Aug. 2, 1842, aged 31. 
Angell, Jane w. of John, d. Oct. 3, 1818, aged 41. also two of their children, 

William died Oct. 19, 1818, aged 6. Sarah died Oct. 21, 1818, aged 4. 

Elizabeth w. of John, died Nov. 1, 1836, aged 57. 

Arnatt, Jonathan, of Lew, died Jan. 21, 1799, aged 61. Elizabeth A. wife of 

Jon. A. died April 18, 1779, aged 38. Elizabeth second wife of Jon. A., d. 

Nov. 22. 1833, aged 90. also 3 infant children of the above, also Joseph A., 

of Lew, d. April 22, 1834, aged 47. Jonathan A., of Lew, died Dec. 20, 

1844, aged 63. 
BAKER, William, d. April 26, 1836, aged 89. 
Martha, w. of Thomas B., d. Feb. 23, 1837, aged 34. 

Kind angels guard my sleeping dust, Till Christ shall come to raise the just ; 

Then may I wake in sweet surprize, And in my Saviour's image rise. 

Hannah w. of Wiliiam, d. May 5, 1824 aged 65. 

Charles Henry, son of Charles and Mary B., d. May 10, 1838, aged 11 



months, also Fanny their dr., d. Oct. 11, 1840, aged 1 year 9 months. 
Banting, James, d. Nov. 8, 1822, aged 73. Martha his wife d. Nov. 27, 1830, 
aged 81. 

Barker, R , A. M. obiit Feb. 27, 1778, aged 35. 

Bartlett, John, son of Richard and Mary, d. April also 

Mary w. of Richard B. d. May 7, 1729, aged 45. 
Bartlett, Thomas and Ann his w., he d. Feb. 12, 1779, aged 71 ; she died 
Aug. 20, 1759. 

Thomas, died June 10, 1813, aged 71. 

Loving, beloved, in all relations true, 
Exposed to follies, but subdued by few ; 
Reader, reflect and copy, if you can, 
The social virtues of this honest man. 

Ann, wife of Thomas Bartlett, d. Jan. 14, 1836, aged 85 — also 



Sarah dr. of Thomas and Ann Bartlett, d. March 18, 1812, aged 30. 

John, of Aston, died May 21, 1827, aged 72 — Mary his w., died, 



Jan. 5, 1815, aged 60. 

My life was burdensome to me, 
Till Christ my God did set me free 
From all sorrow, grief and pain : 
We trust in Christ to rise again. 
Emily, Violetta, and Frances, daughters of Joseph and Elizabeth 



B. Em. d. Jan. 16, 1832, aged 5 ; Viol. d. Jan 30, 1832, aged 7 ; Frances, w. 
of George Knapp, d. May 17, 1838, aged 24. also children, died in in- 
fancy. 

Thomas, d. Aug. 15, 1831, aged 56. 

William, d. March 9, 1835, aged 57. 



Baston, William, d. June 30, 1771, aged 67. 

Jonathan, d. June 8, 1787, aged 63. 

Bateman, Edward, d. May 21, 1827, aged 72. 

Emma, daughter of John and Mary, died Nov. 29, 1827, aged 3 years 

9 months. 

James John, son of Thomas Hicks and Anna Maria Bateman, died 



March 14, 1838, aged 4 months. 



50 H1STOUY OF BAMFTQNj 

Bates, Mary. 

Draw near to me, my children dear, 

See where your mother lies : 
Close in the dust until the day, 

Our bodies shall arise. 
To part with you great grief it was, 

More joys for to in sue : 
I hope for mercy at that day, 
And there to meet with you. 
Batts, Mary wife of William, d. Dec. 11, 1834, aged 72. 
Reader, live well, and fear no sudden call, 
For soon or late grim death will seize us all ; 
A life well spent will look death in the face ; 
My glass is run, and thine doth waste apace. 

i Elizabeth, w. of Richard, late of Lew, d. June 28, 1812, aged 26. 

Short was the time I was a wife, Before I did resign my life. 
Unto my blessed Saviour's trust, Hoping to rise among the just. 
Bennett, John, died Jan. 6, 1317, aged 8". 
Bishop, Ann, d. May 7, 1806, Ag. 93. 

Elizabeth, dr. of Richard and Ann, d. Jan. 5, 1735, aged 11. 

Brandon, Geovgiana, died May 2, 1843, aged 21 years 8 months. 
Brasier, Joseph, son of Joseph and Mary B., died Dec. 30. 
Breakspear, William, gentleman, d. Aug. 23, 1841 aged 63. 
Bullen, Susan Dorothy, died Sept. 1, 1831, aged 17. 

Bullock, George, son of Wm. and Elizab. B., d. March 19, 1830, ag. 4 yrs. 10 ms. 
Here lies a child to parents dear, Christ called him hence his joys to share ; 
We hope in Heaven we shall him find, "Which heals the troubles of our mind. 

Bunce, , and Mary, his w., he d. Sept. ... 17... ag. 71, she d 1731, ag. 78. 

Burrow, Rev. Thomas, 38 years vicar of Bampton, d. Jan. 30, 1837, aged 71. 
Busby, Mary, w. of John, d. Aug. 16, 1800, aged 50. 
CARPENTER, John, died Dec. 27, 1790, aged 74. 

Carr, Rev. Thomas William, B. A., late scholar on Jackson's foundation at Mer- 

ton College. Oxford, d. Ap. 19, 1837, aged 27. also Rev. George Carr, M. A., 

curate of Black Bourton, Oxon, d. June 5, 1840, ag. 35. Louisa C. died Sep. 23, 

1810, ag. 73, & two ss. Also Louisa C. organist of this par., d. Dec. 1844, ag.38. 

Carter, Ann, w. of Leonard, d. Sep. 20, 1766, ag. 63. also 3 children, Elizabeth d. 

May 6, 1746, ag. 3 ; Edward d. Sep. 3, 1717, ag.l ; Ann d. May 13, 1756, ag.9. 

Leonard, died Dec, 27, 1772, aged 59. 

Thomas and Ann, s. and dr. of Leonard and Mary C. Ann died Jnne 25, 

1782 aged 12 y. ; Thos. died May 1, 1792 aged 8. 

Michael, died Jan. 5, 1817, aged 72. 

Leonard, d. Aug. 12, 1814, ag. 69 — Mary his w. d. Dec. 10, 1820, ag. 80. 

Hannah, wife of Joseph, died June 19, 1800, aged 2\ 



A loving wife, a friend most dear, A tender mother lieth here ; 

Affliction's sore she with patience bore, Phisicians were in vain : 

Till death did seize, and God did please, To ease her of her pain. 

Though great my loss, I hope with joy In heaven to meet again. 

Margaret, died Nov. 14, 1823, aged 66. 

A sudden change, she in a moment fell, 
And had not time to bid her friends farewell : 
Think nothing strange that happens unto all, 
Her lot's to day, tomorrow thine may fall. 



APPENDIX, NO XXI. 51 

Carter, John, d. April 30, 1671. 

Humphrey, d. Oct. 2, 1693. 

• Francis, s. of Francis and Mary, d. May 31, 1709 — also Mary, w. of F. 

C.,d. March 26,1720. 

Elizabeth, dr. of John and Joan. d. May 17, 1726, aged 17. 

Charwood, Ann, wife of Thomas, died Oct. 27, 1790, aged 25. 

Church, Henry, and Mary, his wife, he d- Sep. 9, 1726, ag shed. Dec. 29, 1751, 

aged 77 — Henry and Richard, sons of Henry and Mary C. Henry d. June 1, 
1767, aged 61 : Richard died Nov. ... 1726, aged 20 yrs. — also Mary Merry, 
and Elizabeth C. drs. of Henry and Mary C. Mary d. Feb. 3,1747, ag. 15 years 
Elizabeth died Dec. 9, 1728, aged 19 years. 

Maiy, daughter of William and Catharine, d. May 4, 1803, aged 18. 

Clack, Catharine and Ann, daughters of Richard Clack ; Catharine d. Jan. 
12, 1817, aged 35; Ann d. Nov. 28, 1814, aged 24. 

Sophia, w. of Samuel, d. Feb. 13, 1831, aged 59. 

Now I lie buried deep in dust, My flesh is still my care ; 

These with'ring limbs to thee I trust, To raise them strong and fair. 

Leah, wife of James C. d. July 29, 1845, aged 33. — Jesse John Lindsay C, 

son cf James C, d. July 3, 1845, aged 1 year 8 months. 
For that inevitable road, That leads him to his last abode, 
None can too well prepare : Or weigh too wisely, ere he go, 
The good or ill his soul must know, When brought to judgment there. 
Clarke, Richard, d. Ap. 13, 1806, aged 56. 

Rich., senior, d. March 21, 1814, agpd 72. 

Margaret, w. of Rich. C, d. Jan. 7, 1823, aged 72. 

Clinch, Mary, w. of William, d. Dec. 2, 1837, aged 37. 
If e'er sharp sorrow from thine eyes did flow, 
If e'er thy bosom felt another's woe, 
If e'er fair beauty's charms thy heart did prove, 
If e'er the offspring of thy virtuous love 
Bloom 'd to thy wish, or to thy soul was dear, 
This plaintive stone will ask thee for a teai*, 
For her, alas ! too early snatch'd away, 
All that was lovely death hath made his prey. 
No more her cheeks with crimson roses vie, 
No more the diamond sparkles in her eye, 
Her breath no more its balmy sweets can boast, 
Alas that breath with all its sweets is lost. 
Like opening roses drooping lilies tell, 
Like those she bloom 'd, and ah ! like those she fell ; 
In circling leaves let the pale ivy grow 
And distant yews a sable shade bestow. 
Round her. ye graces, constant vigils keep, 
And guard, fair innocence, her sacred sleep, 
Till that bright morn shall wake the beauteous clay- 
To bloom, and sparkle in eternal day. 
Clinch, William, son of John and Sarah, d. Jan. 25, 1817, aged 15. 

John, d. May 25, 1832, aged 37. Sarah his w. d. Sep. 27, 1840, aged 65. 

Collingwood, Bartholomew, d. Dec. 20, 1730, aged 40 Hannah his w., d> 

June 10, 1737, aged 50. Bartholomew their son, from Witney, d. young. 

■ Bartholomew, senior, d. April 1, 1714, aged 72. 

As I am so must you be, Prepare with speed to follow me. 

— — Benjamin, d. April 28, 1789, aged 71. 

— John, of Lew, d. Feb. 4, 1844, aged 94. 

9 



M HISTORY OF BAMPTOff, 

Colltns, Susanna, w. of Simon C, died Aug. 31, 1787, aged 48. 
With patience to the Lord she did submit, 
A- id murmured not at what the Lord thought fit ; 
She with a Christian courage did resign 
Her soul to God at his appointed time. 

■ Simon, d. March 1, 1807, aged 78. 

Dear children all I pray agree, And serve the Lord and follow me: 
Serve your God while you have breath, There's no repentance after death. 

- — Mary T daughter of Simon and Susanna, died April 4, 1804, aged 14. 

While in this world I did remain, My latter end was grief and pain, 
But when the Lord he thought it best, He took me to a place of rest. 
Thomas, d. Dec. 23, 1844, aged 79. 



Cooke, Thomas, B. D. archd. of Salop., rect. of Drayton, & vie. of Bam., d. Ap. 

6, 1669, ag. 73. Elizab. Wiat, mother of Priscilla w. of Th. Cooke, d. May 16. 

1668, ag. 82. [long Latin inscription] 
John, died Feb. 12, 1832, aged 49. 

If three score years and ten we stay, 'Tis but a shadow past away, 

But lands the saints with Christ above In the sweet sun-beam of his love. 
Copelamd, Mary wife of William C. died Feb. 26, 1807, aged 73. 

Cork, Richard, of Lew, died Jan. 28, 1718. also his wife 

Cripfs, Mrs Michael, ancient and worthy citizen of-Ox. d. Nov. 27, 1693, ag. 78. 

Near to this place enclosed I lie, A victim to mortality; 

My years were many, but are past, And hither I am come at last, 

To sleep in dust, a destined fate : Which some feel early, ethers late : 

Your time's uncertain, but will come, And every man's appointed doome. 

Wherefore prepare to take great heede ; Mark well thy steps, be good with speede : 

Trust to thy Saviour for thy gain, And thou through him shalt life obtain. 
Elizabeth, w. o? John C, d. Aug. 26, 1791, ag. 25. Susannah, their dr., 

d. Sep. 5, 1704, aged 5. 

Mary wife of Thomas, d. July 19, 1819, aged 23 —also 3 inf. child. 

Weep not for me, my husband dear, Behold my body sleepeth here : 
My debt is paid, my grave you see, Then soon prepare to follow me. 
Croft, Mrs Mary, a benefactor to this town, lies here. 
Curd, Mrs Sarah, d. June 1, 1772, aged 71. 
DEWE, Richard, Senr. second son of Mr. Richard I>. late of Abingdon, in the 

county of Berks, esquire, died Sep. 14, 1684, aged 60. 
John, Esq. &c. died Ap. 23, 1759, aged 50. monument erected by his 

sisters Jane and Mary Dewe. Anna Maria his sister, died Aug. 19, 1753. 
Richard, and Jane his w., he d. Ap. 5, 1728, ag. 18 [Lat. ins,] 



Drinkwater, Margaret, w. of William, d. Feb. 13, 1718, aged 71. 
Dubber, Ann, 1775. 

Dutton, Ann, wife of Richard D., died Nov. 15, 1799, aged 33. — also four child- 
ren, John, d, Jan. 4, 1776, ag. 18 ms., Sarah, d. Aug. 2, 1777, ag. 8 days, Marga- 
garet, d. Feb. 18, 1789, ag. 2 yrs., Thomas d. Oct. 4, 1794, ag. 19. 

— Richard, died June 10, 1813, aged 67. 

Catherine, dau. of Richard and Ann, died March 24, 1806, aged 21. 

EATON, Elizabeth, wife of Thomas, died Oct. 2, 1776, ag. 43. 

My friends of me are now bereft, And I within this tomb am left. 

But no — my body is not I ; For I am blessed in the sky. 

Ann, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth, died May 1, 1789, aged 23. 

Thomas, died May 29, 1816, aged 82. 

Long in this world I did remain ; My latter end was grief and pain : 

But when the Lord he thought it best, He took me to His place of rest. 
Edmonds, Johan, A. M., hujus eccl. Vicar., ob. 21 Ap. 1743, aetat. suas 13o. 



APPENDIX, NO XXI. 53 

Eldrige, Joseph, died Feb. 28, 1809, aged 72. 

FAWDERY, Michael, d. Sep. 3, 1726. Anne, w. of M. F., and Jane, w. of 
Richard Mahun, d. Jan. 17, 1740, aged 60. Mary Fawdery, dr. of the 
above Michael F. Anne Mall am, d. Dec ag 

Fell, Leonard. Hie reliquiae ponuntur Leonard Fell, infantis, qui obiit 3o 
nonarum Feb., MDCCVI. 

Serius aut citius metam properamus ad imam. 
Fisher, Hannah, dr. of Edward and Catharine Sarah Fisher, d. Jan. 27, 1837, 
aged 26. Edward, their son, d. May 24, 1838, ag. 18. 
Just in my youthful blooming years, I left my frends with weeping tears, 
My time was short, I could no longer stay, My dear Redeemer called me away, 

Thomas, son of Edward and Catharine Sarah F., d. Dec. 23, 1840, 

ag. 27, leaving a wife and two single children. Lucy, daughter of Thomas 
and Elizabe'.h F., d. Jan. 21, 1843, ag. 3 years 2 months. 
Fox, Michael, d. Feb. 1, 1701, aged 22. 

Mary, dr. of John F. and wife of Thomas Saunders, formerly butler of Trin- 
ity Coll., Ox., d. Dec. 31, 1772, aged 57. 

Francis, d. Nov. 4. 1792, aged 70. John Fox, d 22, 1801, ag. 83. 

■ Mary, w, of John, d. Jan. 7, 1797, aged 39 yrs. John Fox d 

Charlotte, dr. of Thos and Maria F. of Aston in this p. d. Aug. 16, 1819,ag. 21, 

Farewell, my friends, who loved me so dear ; 
I'm gone to rest : you have no cause to fear. 
My time was short, I could no longer stay, 
My dear Redeemer called me away. 

John, late of Aston, d. Aug. 7, 1823. 

A loving husband and a father dear, A faithful friend lies buried here. 

James, son of John and Hannah, late of Aston, d. June 6, 1827, ag. 34. 

My wife and children dear, As I have left behind, 
Be prepared to follow me, And bear me in your mind. 
Great sorrow it was to part with you, More joy for to ensue, 
And with the just I hope to rise, And there to meet with you. 

Joseph, gent., d. Aug. 23, 1802, aged 62. 

-Richard, son of William and Sarah, d. March 15, 1821, ag. 26 ;ears. 

From dust thou art ; to dust must fall ; Think oft on this and on God call. 
This life how short, how sure the grave, Make no delay your soul to save. 

Mary, dr. of John and Mary, d. Dec. 22, 1835, ag. 32. 3 s. and 1 dr. d. infants. 

John, d. March 21, 18±l", ag. 64. 

— Maria, w. of Thos.. d. Dsc. 2,', 1837, ag. 65. 

All flesh is grass and turns to dust, Mortals are born to die ; 
Live well and put in Christ }rour trust, And hope for endless joy. 

William, son of Wm. and Sarah, of Ducklington d. Sep. 27, ag. 21. 

Christ is my life, though body die, My soul with Christ lives joyfully, 
My life's not lost ; refrain your tears, My life's but hid till Christ appears. 

John, son of William and Sarah, of Claywell, d. Jan. 11, aged 42. 

A lingering illness did me seize, Which no Physician could me ease, 
At length the Lard he thought it best To take me to a place of rest. 

Richard, d. Oe\ 21, 1779. Mary his w., d. Nov 2, 1781. 

Mary, widow, d. Ap. 15, 1793, ag. 77. Mary, w. of Joseph, d. same day, ag. 51. 

Elizabeth, d. Feb. 23, 1817, aged 75. 

Sarah w. of William, d. June 24, 1777, ag. 38 

Frederic, Dorothy, d. Sep. 14, 1763. Mrs. Martha V. d. Jan. 1763. Gascoygne 

F. Esq., d. Jan. 25, 1780. Mrs. Mary F. d. April 20, 1786. Mrs. Su- 
sanna/ F, d. Miy 27, 1798. 
Frost, Ella, dr. of Samuel and Jane, d. Ap. 9, 1799, ag. 3 yrs. 7 ms. George 



54 HISTORY OF BAMPTOX, 

Frost, d. Nov. 21, 1840, ag. 45. 

GEEVES, Robert, d. May 21, 1703. Anthony, d. Nov. 22, 1712, aged 87. 

Gillet, Nora, died May 20, 1845, aged 8 months. 

Godwin, Richard, of Leachlade in Glostershire, late servant fo Doctor Fortes- 
cue, d. March 6, 1752, ag. 57. 

Gower, three infants of John Gower Esquire and Anne his Wife, namely 
Anne G. buried March 28, 1676.— William G. buried Feb. 14, 1679, — and 
Mary G. buried May 2,1679. 

Green, Bernard, died April 15, 1811, aged 74. — Bernard Green junior, died 
Sen. 25, 1827, aged 62. 

Groves, Elizabeth, dr. of George and Mary G., d. May 11, 1806, aged 23. 

Mary, \v. of George G., d. March 12, 1779, ag. 28 yrs. — Ann, and 

Sarah, their infant daughters. 

George, died July 22, 1799, aged 56 — William, son of George and 



Mary G., died June 7, 1791, ag. 18.— Mary w. of George G., d. May 29, 1793, 
aged 41. — George, son of George and Mary G., d. Feb. 19, 1816, ag. 30. 
HARRIS, Elinor, w. of James, d. Dec. 19, 1758, ag. 43. 

■ Robert, late of Coate,d. Feb. 28, 1793, aged 54. 

Elizabeth, w. of William, (late of Aston) d. Aug. 20, 1791. 

Mrs Sarah, late of Coate, d. Dec. 26, 1842, ag. 82. 

Hawkins, William, A. M., of Whitchurch, Dorsetshire, and formerly Professor of 
poetry in the Univ. of Oxford; d. July 12, 1801, ag. 79. — also William Haw- 
kins M. A., his son, r ellow of Pemb. Coll. Ox., d. Oct. 12, 1801, ag. 48. 
Hawtrey, Rev. Chas .., vicar of two portions of Bampton, d. June 23, 1796, ag. 63. 
Herbert, Eleanor, died Dec. 21, 1810, aged 82. 
Higgins, William, d. Nov. 19, 1843, aged 50. Ann wife of Edward Hutton, dr. 

of the late Chas. and Mary Higgins of Hatford, Berks, d. July 12, 1790, ag. 59. 
Hill, Dorothy, w. of Roger, buried the 18 of April, 1673. 

Peter, died Feb. 9, 1786, aged 80. 

Ann, wife of Peter, d. Feb. 5, 1780, aged 60. 

Samuel, died Aug., 21, 1823, aged 73. 

Elizabeth, w. of d. Nov. 10, 1807, aged 66. 

Hitchcock, Mary, died Aug. 28, 1801, aged 35. 
Holcot, Robert, d. Oct. 25, 1600. 

Orate pro anima venerabilis ac scientifici viri, magistri Roberti Holcot, sacer- 
dotis ac archi magistri, necnon hujus insignis ecclesias vicarii vitam dum agitr- 
ret in humanis : qui Domino obdormivit mensis Octobris luce vicesima quinta, 
anno CCCCCo. Huic propicietur ille, cui omnium rerum prima potestas. 
Holford, Elizabeth, d. Jan. 11, 1819, aged 73. 

Holiday, Michael, d. Ap. 3, 1801. also Ann his w. d. May 22, 1808. 
Honeybone, John, late servant to Mrs. Needham, d. Jan. 16, 1780, aged 53. 
Horde, Frances, w. of Sir Th. IL, d. July 23, 1633, ag. 36. 

■ Thomas, esq. eldest son of Sir Th. H. d. Nov. 1, 1715, ag. 92 — Barbara 

his first w. d. Aug. 12, 1671, ag. 44. 

Seeke not in marble, nor this straitened room, 
But country's! greife her epitaph and tombe : 
This keeps her dust, her mem'ry that shall keep, 
While men can vertue love or losses weepe. 

Charles, eld. s. of Tho. & Bar., d. July 29, 1T93, ag. 37. 

Susanna, second w. of Tho. H., Aug. 12, 1680, ag. 37. 

[The genealogies of the Horde family given on these tombs are too long to be 
here enumerated.] 

Hudson, Rob-, and Jane, his w., he d. March .26, 1768, ag. 75, she d. Nov. 5, 1774, 
" 75. 



APPENDIX, NO XXI. 55 

As those we love decay, we die in part, 

String after string is loosen 'd from the heart, 

Till lengthen 'd life at last, but breathing clay, 

Without one pang is glad to fall away. 
Hudson, Robt, d. Jan. 16, 1805, ag. 70. Ann, his dr., d. Ap. 15, 1837, ag. 2 ys 8 ms. 

The dear delights we here enjoy, And fondly call our own, 

Are but short favours lent us now, To be repaid anon. 
Distrust and darkness of a future state 
Make poor mankind so fearful of their fate : 
Death in itself is nothing, but we fear 
To be we know not what, we know not where. 
Hurcomb, Thomas, son of Wm. and Sarah H., died October 15. 1775, aged 17. 

Wm,d. Jan. 1, 1786, ag. 63. Sarah, w. of Wm, d. Feb. 13, 1787, ag. 31. 

William, son of William and Sarah Hurcomb, died July 3, 1788, ag. 36. 

Maria, w. of John Hurcomb, d. Jan. 3, 1841. 

John, d. March 17, 1843, aged 84. 

JEEVES, Edward, late of Lew, d. Dec. 28, 1831, aged 79. — also Thomas Jeeves, 
' d. Feb. 28, 1832, aged 76. 
Johnson, Thomas, of Lew, d. Apr. 1, 1805, aged 65. 

Here lies the only comfort of my life, 

Who was the best of hubands to a wife, 

Since he is not, no joy I e'er shall have, 

Till laid by him within his silent grave. 

Here we shall sleep and quietly remain 

Till by God's power we meet in Heaven again. 
Eliza, his wife, d. Feb. 9, 1824, aged 77. 

Here lies the mortal part of a beloved wife, 

Prudent in all her conduct when in life ; 

A tender mother, faithful consort here. 

Lamented by her spouse and children dear, 

She died, but is not dead, for yet she lives 

With God and Christ, eternal life who gives . 

Mourn not her loss : she's only gone before, 

And strive to follow her, to part no more. 

Samuel, d. Dec. 14, 1768, aged 65. also Alice, his'wife, d. Feb. 27, 1785. 

Thomas, d. July 7, 1809, aged 64. 

* Thomas, d. Dec. 7, 1822, aged 75. 

Thos, d. Ap. 17, 1832, ag. 54. Hannah, his wife, d. Nov. 16, 1838, ag. 62. 

Jones, Elizabeth, w. of Samuel, of St. Clement Dane, London, 2d dr. of John and 
Ann King, innkeeper of this parish, d. Oct. 2, 1826, aged 24. 

John Orpwood, d. April 4, 1827, aged 28. 

Mr. Samuel, late of St. Clement Dane London, d. Feb. 18, 1835, aged 35. 

Hannah Munro, dr. of Moses and Ann J., d. April 20, 1840, aged 15. 

KEARSE, Mary, wife of Thomas, senior, of Black Bourton, d. Dec. 17, 1773. 

Priscilla, daughter of Robert and Mary, d. Sep. 7, 1799, aged 12, 

Kent, Anthony, d. Sep. 9, 1707, aged 27. 

King, Rachel, wife of Walter K., d. April 20, 1783, aged 42 years. 

Elizabeth, wife of Wm King junior, d. April 20, 1834, aged 49 yrs. 

also Priscilla their daughter, d. Dec. 23, 1824, aged 19. 

Wm,sen. d. Jan. 20,1801, aged 45. Sarah, his w. d. May 24, 1827, ag. 75. 

William, late plumber and glazier &c, d. Jan. 29, 1837, aged 56. 

J. S., d. Feb. 13 1831, ag. 58. Ann, his wife d. May 15, 1842, ag. 61. 

Knapp, George, d. Jan. 18, 1792. 

Catharine, wife of George, d. April 4, 1803, aged 70. 

10 



56 HISTORY OF BAMPTOS, 

LAMBETH, Elizth, W. of Thos L., d. June 17, 1804, ag. 75. Richard & Robert 
their sons. d. in infancy. 

Elizabeth, wife of James, d. Jan. 6, 1832, ag. 62. 

Deep interr'd in earth's dark tomb, The mould 'ring body lies ; 
But the Christian from the tomb Shall soon triumphant rise. 
- Simon Collins, d. July 31, 1837, aged 38. 



Weep not for me, my dear wife, But rather do rejoice, 
Though I was called away so .-oon, I was the Almighty's choice. 
Lardner, Waller, Sen., of Bamptone, d. Jan. 7, 1702, aged 72. 

Stand still, kind reader, spend a tear Upon the dust that sleepeth here, 
And whilst you read this state of mine, Think of the glass that runs of thine. 
Laurance, ..«, s. of Rich. & Sarah L., of Astell, d. April 11, 1756, ag. 62. 
Leake, John, s. of Thos and Hannah, d. Oct. 2, 1817 ag. 9 months. 
Beneath this stone an infant lies, WTiose earth to ashes lent 
Hereafter may more glorious rise, Though not more innocent. 

Elizabeth, wife of Thos, d. Dec 22, 1812, ag. 49. 

There is no age that death will spare, All ages, they must die ; 
Therefore to die let all prepare, To live eternally. 
Thomas, d. July 4, 1819, aged 69. 



Leforestier, Louis, d. Ap. 8, 1841, aged 8 months. 

Leverid, Elizabeth, w. of John L., d. Aug. 10, 1670. 

Lewis, Joseph, s. of John and Mary L., d. Oct. 29, 17~4, ag 29. 

Lindsey, Mary, w. of Humphrey L., of Coate, d. March 11, 1774, aged 80. 

■ Humphrey, of Coate, died June 5, 1775, aged 91. 

• Edward, d. Aug. 30, 1813, ag. 79. — also Ann L., d. April 26, 1817, ag. 68. 

This stone presents before th' unthinking throng 
Th' instructive lesson, as they pass along ; 
Shews them how frail they are, how wise 't would be, 
To seek a fitness for eternity. 
Lissett, Rev. Rd, M. A., vicar of Oundle in Northamptonshire, d. Dec. 14, 1764, 
ag. 71. also Win L., Gent, & Jane, his w., she d. Ap. 20, 1753. he d. Ap. 1, 1772. 

Mr. William, gent., d. Mar. 17, 1791, ag. 65. also Eliza, relict of the said 

W. L., d. Nov. 18, 1796, ag. 80. Mrs. Jane his sister, d. Dec. 31, 1799, ag. 69. 
MACE, Robert, d. Feb., 1682. 
Maccaughey, Ann Washington, d. March 22, 1798, ag. 5 y. — Richard M., 

d. June 27, 1802, aged 2 years 3 months and 6 days. 
Malam, Richard, d. July 13, 1773, ag. 88. John, and Mary his wife, he d. Sep. 

26, 1774, ag. 56. she d. July 24, 1775, ag. 54. 
Mander, John, esq., d. Ap 7, 1809, ag. 62. Mrs. Sarah M., his mother, died 1 788. 

also John Nabbs, & Elizabeth, his w., he d. Ap. 3, 1770. she d. March 6, 1769. 
Martin, Mrs. Elizabeth, died Sept. 17, 1799, aged 80, 
May, Mary, spinster, d. Jan. 3, 1804, aged 93. 

In faith she dies, within she lies Here underneath, though without breath. 
Merchant, Elizabeth, w. of William, d. July, 18, 1734, aged 53. 
Merrick, Mary, daughter of John and Ann, buried Jan. 18, 1788, ag. 30. -—also 
Ann, w. of John M., buried Sep. 18, 1772, ag. 39. — also Wm, s. of John and 
Ann, buried Feb. 3, 1 778, aged 6. 

Affliction's sore long time I bore, Physicians were in vain, 
Till the Lord pleased Death should me seize, To ease me of my pain. 
Miller, David, second s. of David and Martha, d. Mar. 7, 1804, ag. 4 y. 11 m. 
Beneath a lovely infant lies, To earth his body lent 
More glorious shall hereafter rise, Though not more innocent ; 
When the archangel's trump shall blow, And souls to bodies join, 
Millions will wish their lives below, Had been as short as thine. 



APPENDIX, NO XXI. 57 

Miller, David, d. Feb. 27, 1829, aged 73. 

Monk, Jn. and Mary his w. He d. Jan. 21, 1787, ag. 59. She d. Dec. 19, 1809, ag. 75. 

—-—Elizabeth, d. Feb. 24, 1826, aged 62. 

You that are young, prepare to die, I once was young, and here I lie, 
My marriage-bed lies in the dust, Christ is my spouse, in whom I trust. 
Mary, d. of Wm and Mary M., d. Sep. 21, 1841, aged 26. 



Kind angels guard this sleeping dust, Till Christ shall come to raise the just 
Then may she wake in sweet surprise, And in her Saviour's image rise. 
John, died Oct. 24, 1837, aged 52. 



Farewell, my wife and children dear, I'm gone to rest, you need not fear. 
In love we lived ; in peace I died, You crav'd my life, but God denied ; 
Grieve not for me, for 'tis in vain, I hope in Heaven to meet again. 

■ Wm, late of Aston, died Jan. 16, 1848, aged 82. 

Keep death and judgment always in your eye, 
None are fit to live, who are not fit to die: 
Make use of present time, because you must 
Take up your lodgings, shortly, in the dust : 
' Tis dreadful to behold the setting sun, 
And night approaching ere your work is done. 
Morse, Richard, died Dec. 3, 1817, aged 52. 

Mynchinge, Roberte, of , d. Sep. 14, 1611. 

Newman, Mr. Edw., d. Jan. 8, 1775, aged 68. 

ORPWOOD, Wm, d. Aug. 13, 1709, aged 28. Wm, d. June 24, 1731, ag. 58. 
Wm, buried July 23, 1750, aged 83. 

— Thos, and Mary, his w., he d. Dec. 27, 1775, ag. 38. she d. May 21, 1771, 

ag. 75. — Ann their grddr. buried Feb. 1, 1771, ag. 24. 

William, son of Jn and Hannah, d. Jan. 3, 1779, aged... years 

Hannah, w. of John. O., d. Oct. 13, 1800, ag. 77. 

Jn, d. Feb. 20, 1807, ag. 86. 

Elizth, d. Jan. 5, 1811, ag. 77. 

There is no age that death will spare, All ages they must die ; 
Therefore to die, let all prepare l'o live eternally. 
PALMER, Barb.,wid.. eldest dr. of Thos. Horde, esq., who d. Jan. 7, 1681, ag. 27, 

and left 3 sons, named Giles, John, and Thomas. 
Pawling, Hannah, w. of Wm. P., d. June 7, 1752, ag. 4 yrs. — Hannah, their 
dr., d. May 6 17.. 2, ag. 8 yrs. 

William, d. May 23, 1799, ag. 63. Ann P., his mother, d. Dec. 18, 

Pettifer, Sarah, w. of Edwd, d. March 27, 1775, ag. 32. Eleanor, dr. of Wm and 

Ann P., died March 16, 1781, aged 10 months. 

Elizth, w. of Edwd, d. Jan. 26, 1826, ag. 73. Edwd P., d. June 20, ag. 89. 

John, son of Edwd and Elizth, died April 1, 1796, aged 17 yrs. 

Philips, Stephen. Hie jacet Stephanus Philips, S. T. P. Obiit 1684. 

Philips, Rev. Step., D. D. d. Aug. 20, 1784, ag. 46. mon. erected by his widow 

Mary, dau. of Thos. Cooke. [Lat.ins.] 
Pincot, Elizabeth, died Apr. 29, 1805, aged 74. 

Long in this world I did remain, My latter end was grief and pain : 

And when the Lord he thought it best, He took me to a place of rest. 
Plaster, Wm, and Mary, his wife, d. June 6, 1797, ag. 35. — Sarah their inf. dr. 

Rob., s. of Rob. and Mary, died Apr. 21, 1788, ag. 21. 

Rob., d. Feb. 15,1810, ag. 78. Mary, w. of Rob., d. Aug. 23, 1811, ag. 90. 

Margaret, w. of Wm, d. May 21, 1818, ag. 25. 

Plymmyswode, Thomas. Hie jacet mag. Tho. PI. quondam vicarius de Bamp. cujus 

animge propicietur Deus. Amen ! 
Price, Mary, w. of Walter, late of Marcyhampton, Glost. d. Dec. 28, 1835, ag. 95. 



58 HISTORY OF BAMPTok, 

Pruce, Jane, w. of Jn, d. Oct. 3, 1813, ag. 81. Mary Hudson, d. July 7, 1817, ag. 78. 
Pryor, Robt, d. Maich 1701. Mary, his w. d. Dec, 1792. Wm P. d. Jan. 18, 1828, 

ag. 80. Elizth, his w. d. Aug. 21, 1832, ag. 78. Wm P. d. Juns 25, 1751, aged 62! 

Mary, his wife died May 19, 1812, aged 89. 

Pusey, Mary, wife of John, died aged 63. 

REYNOLDS, Rev. Wm., M. A., double portionist of B., d. /an. 28, 1750, ag. 46. 

Rachael, his w, d. Sep. 18, 1771, ag. 74. Mary, their dau., d. Dec. 23, 1744, 
ag. 19. [Lat. ins.] 
Ricketts, Betty, w. of Joseph, late of Aston, d. Marcli 11, ag. 79. 

Farewell my children & relations dear, I'm gone to rest; you have no cause to fear. 

Grieve not for me ; in time apply ; To meet that sentence all are doom'd to die : 

So shall we meet again to part no more, But live with Christ in peace for evermore. 
Ridge, Thos, d. May 23, 1792, ag. 82. Elizth, his w. d. Sep. 18, 1765. 
Roberts, Sarah, w. of Wm, d. Oct. 16, 1791, ag. 59. Maria, dr of Wm and Sarah 

R., d. March 11, 1779, ag. 12. 
. Maria, dr of Wm and Mary R., d. Sep. 17, 1822, ag. 20. — Fred. s. 

of Wm and Mary R., died in his infancy — Mary R., d. Nov. 3, 1830, ag. 33. 

Sarah, d. March 11, 1832, ag. 71.— Tabitha, R., d, June 6, 1832, ag. 68. 

Wm, esq., d. Dec, 1843, ag. 77. 



Robins, Jas, s. of Levi and Jane, d. May 28, 1818, ag. 8. Ann, their dr., d. June 8, 

1826, ag. 2 months. 
Rose, Geo., (s. of Jas R., solr., and Elizth his w.) d. June 12, 1843, ag. 26. 
SAMMONS, Amelia Ann, w. of Thos, d. Apr. 28, 1805, ag. 67. —Thos S., d. 

Oct. 27, 1779, ag. 52. 
Sandelands, Elizth, w. of John S., d. Jan. 18, 1701. ElLzth,d. of John and Elizth. 
Savory, John, d. Jan. 3, 1808, aged 23. 
Searey, Ann, d. Sept. 19, 1780. John S., d. Dec. 27, 1787, ag. 77, 

Charlotte, w. of Wm, d. May 21, 1808, ag. 40. Wm, s. of Wm & Charlotte. 

■ Elizth, w. of Wm, d. Sept. 21, 1817, ag. 38. 

My husband and my children dear, It is God's will that I am here, 

As 1 am, so must you be, Prepare therefore to follow me. 

Catharine, wife of John, died March 31, 1804, aged 67. 



A Christian true, a friend sincere, In all her actions just, 

A tender faithful wife lies here, Consigned to native dust. I 

Richard & Charlotte, their inf. chiln. also John, died April 27, 1807, ag. 72. 

Peace to thy gentle shade ; thy soul is free ; Death 's but the gate to immortality ! 
William, died October 20, 1829, aged 63. 



Here lies a careful & industrious man, Who did by labour measure out life's span, 
But now his latest grain of sand is run, And all his care and all his labour done. 
So, pray, for me no pity take But love my children for my sake. 

Thomas, son of John and Catharine, died Dec. 17, 1811, aged 33. [Ins- 



cription in poetry. See page 57, Orpwood Elizabeth. 
John, died January 2, 1821, aged 56. 



Man's life, what is it? 'T is a flower, Looks fresh and dies within an hour. 
How frail is man! how short his breath, In midst of life we are in death. 
Sheppard, W. H., esq., 1715. 

Shingleton, Mary, w. of Joseph S. sen, d. May 4, 1774, ag. 72,. 
Through all affliction God great comfort gave, 
And laid me peaceful in the silent grave, 
From which I hope to rise my God to see 
To dwell with Christ to all eternity. 

Jos., sen, d. Feb. 3, 1777, ag. 80. 

* Sarah, w. of Jos. d. March 22, 1798, ag. 58. Jos. S., d. Dec 20, 1813, 

aged 81. 



APPENDIX, NO XXlI. 59 

Shingleton, Geo. Bryan, d. Sep. 11, 1834, ag. 60. 

Sims, John, d. Jan. 5, 1823, ag. 82. Margaret, his wife, d. Feb. 21, 1723, ag. 78, 
While here on earth I did remain, My latter end was grief and pain, 
At length the Lord has thought it best To take me to a place of rest. 

Elizabeth, buried 1751, in the 80th year of her age. 

Skinner, John, son of John and Jane, d. March 31, 1781, ag. 2 yrs. 3 ms. 

Ann, dr of John, d. May 1, 1787, in her infancy. 

■ Robt, and Elizth, his w., he d. Jan. 28, 1792, ag. 87. she d. Jan. 9, 

1790,aged87.] Beneath this stone are laid an honest pair, 

Who three score years did various changes share ; 
' Tho' Heaven decreed them in an humble state, 
Yet were their lives more happy than the great, 
Blush then, ye rich, and learn from hence to know, 

Contentment <■ bliss below, 

■ Thos, d. Sept. 9, 1802, ag. 63. Mary his wife d. Dec. 6, 1813, ag. 77. 

Jane, wife of John, d. May 20, 1811, aged 67. 



A patient Christian through a suffering life, A tender mother and a loving wife, 
Though all shall fade, and Nature's self must die, Her pure and virtuous deeds to 
also John, her husband, d. Ap. 2, 1813, ag. 71. [Heaven shall fly. 

Smith, Wm, died March 15, 1815, aged 61. Thos, son of Wm & Ann, died in Lon- 
don, Dec. 31, 1793, aged 17 yrs. 9 mths. George, died in infancy, also Ann, wife 
ofWm, died Jan. 25, 1840, aged 76. 

Snell, John, infant, died Sept. 2, 1691. Ann Snell, infant, died Sept. 19, 1696. 

Reverend Thos, S. T. B. [Lat.inscrip.] Mrs Elizth, his widow, daughter of 

thelate Jno. Frederic esq., died Jan. 2, 1788, aged 81. [Latin inscription.] 

Sparrowhawk, Wm, jun., d. Oct. 10, 1753, ag. 39. Mary, his wife, d. Jan. 23 ; 1763, 
ag. 64. Wm, their son, d. Nov. 30, 1797, ag 60. also seven infant children. 

Robt, d. Feb. 14, 1819, ag. 75. Sarah, his w., d. Nov. 1, 1794, ag.37. 

also Thomas and John, their sons, died in infancy. 

Si>encer, Samuel, died May 8, 1841, aged 63. 

Stephens, Mary Clara, w. of Fred>, grocer of Bamp., died March 15, 1844, aged 32. 

Stone, Robt, d. Jan. 19, 1822, ag. 78. Sarah, his wife, died Nov. 21, 1831, ag. 80. 

Robert. A husband kind, a father dear, A faithful friend is buried here, 

Call'd hence to sleep in peaceful dust. Till Christ shall raise him with the just. 

Thomas, son of Robert and Sarah, died June 23, 1831, aged 56. 

Sweet, Elizabeth, died March 8, 1844, aged 85. 

My eyes grew dim, my life it's thread has spun, 
My soul is flown to God, from whence it sprung ; 
Wearied with age my hoary head declined, 
In hopes through Christ some better place to find, 
also Mary, daughter of the above, died July 29, 1833, aged 88. 

TAYLOR, Jas, d. Oct. 30, 1828, ag. 63. Esther, his w., d. Mar. 12, 1829, ag. 67. 

Teeling, Elizth, of Winkfield, Berks, d. Ap. 12, 1787, ag. 7. Rebecca, dr. of Wm & 
Rebecca Fitcher, d. July 26, 1789, ag. 4 yrs. 3 mths. also Hannah, dr. of Thos 
and Elizabeth, died Oct. 9, 1789, ag. 34. [exhausted and her frame decay'd, 

Hannah. While pale disease upon her vitals prey'd, Her strength 

With painful steps life linger'd to the grave, When human art had lost the power 

to save. 
Yet still kind Heaven disposed her virtuous mind, To bear with patience, and to 

death resign 'd. 

Thomson, George, obiit 28 Novemb., 1603. [Inscription in poetry see Page 42.] 

Townsend, Rd, d. Sep. 12, 1771, ag. 64. Elizabeth, his w., d. Ap. 16, 1800, ag. 86. 

Th., of Aston, d. July 26, 1770, ag. 75. Eliz.his w.d.May 14,1787,ag.82. 

Richard, late of Aston, d. June 25, 1792, aged 50. 

John, died June 9, 1803, aged 71. 

Dear wife and children, pray agree, To serve the Lord and follow me : 
Serve God in time whilst you have breath, There's no repentance after death. 

Elizabeth, dr. of Win and Ann, died July 2, 1784, aged 22. 

11 



> HISTORY OF BAHIPTO^ 

Reader, from hence these lessons take, View death as always near ; 
Be wean'd from earthly things, and make Thy soul thy chiefest care. 

William, d. June 19, 1802, ag 65. Ann, his w., d. Sep. 11, 1818, ag. 82. 

Elizabeth, wife of Thomas, died Jan, 23, 1802, aged 70. 

Laden with years, by sickness prest, This pious matron came to rest, 
A fair example of good life, She was a chaste and loving wife, 
Her house did shew her prudent care, She knew both how to spend and spare, 
Mourn not, she's gone where tears do cease, Her upright life did end in peace, 
also Thomas Townsend, died April 3, 1801, aged 63. 
Robert, died April 10, 1827, aged 68. 



Farewell my wife and children dear, It was the Lord that call'd me here, 
Short was the warning which he gave, When 1 was summon'd to the grave, 
But in the Lord I put my trust, And hope to rise among the just, 
also Mary, his wife, died Feb. ], 1833, aged 68. 

John, d. Mar. 15, 1829, ag. 72. Ann, his w., d. Jan. 6, 1821, ag. 59. 



. Robert Caleb, d. Jan. 19, 1832, ag. 26. Mary Ann, dr. of Rob. Cal. & 

Lydia T., died in infancy. Thomas, died Feb. 20, 1833, aged 43. 

— Joseph, d. June 10, 1833, ag. 61. Jane, his wife, died June 16, 1837, 

aged 64. also Charlotte, their dr., died Dec. 14, aged 30. 

- Wm, late of Aston, d. Nov. 21, 1837, ag. 82^ Thomas T., late of Chigwell, 



son of the above, also Wm Townsend, d. Oct. 5, 1840, ag. 50. [Inscr. see p. 52.] 
- Thos, d. May 9, 1841, ag. 74. Elizth, his w., d. June 17, 1843, ag. 79, 



also John, William, David, and Sarah, his brothers and sisters; Jn, d. Mar2S, 
1831, ag. 68. Win, d. Nov. 29, 1825, ag. 60. David, d. Nov. 30, 1821, ag. 49. 
Ann, wife of John, died July 28, 1813, aged 74. 



Dear reader, 'tis a serious thing to die, Thou soon must find it so as well as I : 
If for our works we bliss or woe receive, Dear reader, 'tis a serious thing to live. 
John, of Coate, died Sep. 1, 1818, aged 72. 



VAISEY, John, infant, died Nov. 23, 1724. 

WALK ER, Jos., esq., d. Jan. 1 ,1803, ag. 63. Elizth, his w., d. Mar. 9, 1818, ag. 63. 

Ward, Jane, wife of Jas, dr. of John & Jane Skinner, d. Jan. 12, 1831, ag. 48. also 

Sarah, mother of Jas W., died Aug. 8, 1834, aged 90. 
Watts, David, d. May 1, 1811, ag. 61. also Wm Mv.nt W., son of the above by Eli- 
zabeth, his wife, died Dec 28, 1813. 

Wenman, Anthony, died 3, 1715. Richard, junior, died Nov. 8, 1740. 

Who gave me life took it away. And turned my body into clay . 

My time was short, and so may thine, Therefore prepare thyself in time. 

Richard, died Sept. 27, 1722. [Inscrip. see page 50, Mary Batts.] 

Whitaker, Maria, w. of Wm Henry esq., of Fyfield, Berks, d. Aug. 2, 1839, ag. 53. 
White, William, and John, sons of John and Ann W. Willm died Aug. 24, 1712, 

aged 2. John died Aug. 26, 1712. 
Wiat, Elizabeth, wife of Dr. W., died anno 1688. arms, per pale. 
W t i^liams, John, & Ann, his wife, she died Aug. 19, 1790, aged 63. he died Jan. 17, 

1801, aged 82. also their sons Charles and John died in their infancy. 
Wixstanley, Rev. Wm Bankes, Master of the Grammar School in this town died 

Sept. 30, 1843, aged 56. 
Wixstanley, liev. John Robinson, D. D. a vicar of this parish, died. Dec. 26, 1843. 

Winter, Sarah, wife, of J oseph, died 1797, aged 15. Richard, died 

It is said that this was the same Richard Winter, Tax-getherer, of whom some 
wit wrote the following clever epigram: 

Here comes Richard Winter, collector of taxes ; 
I advise you to pay him whatever he axes ; 
And that very soon, and without any flummery, 
For though his name's Winter, his acts are all Summary. 
Wrisht, William, died Aug. 29, 1822, aged 59. 

O Lord, turn not thy face away From him that lies prostrate 
Lamenting sore his sinful life Before thy mercy's gate. 
Richard, of Snows Hill, Gloucestershire, died Nov. 5, 1732, aged 24. 



APPENDIX, NO XXIII. 61 

also Sarah, d. Aug. 4, 1787 ag. 16. footstone T. T. 1841, E. T. 1813. 
How vain are all encomiums on the dead ! 
How vain the stone with empty praise overspread ! 
No stately tomb can sooth the weeping wife, 
No choice inscription raise the friend to life, 
Death levels all ; the monarch and the slave 
Alike must lie unnoticed in the grave. 
Wrights»oNj Louisa, daughter of Samuel and Anne, d. Aug. 1, 1S02, ag. 6 yrs G m. 
Yeatman, Margaret, w. of Roht Yeatman, Yeoman, d. Aug. 2, 1750, ag. 25. also 
Robert Yeatman, yeoman, d. Feb. 19, 1792, ag. 74. Martha, w. of Rob. Fisher, 
died Sep. 7, 1812, aged 87. Robert Fisher, died Dec. 9, 1829, aged 72. 
He died in peace, but lived in pain, A welcome death his greatest gain. 
The following were once found in Bamp. church-yard, but have been destroyed ; 
Why should you mourn for I Seeing it is God's will 
That man was born to die The Scripture to fulfil. 
For the loss of friends Is much 

Do no evil for the Devil Will have you if you do, 
Better 'twere given to you in Heaven To join the blessed few. 
This world 's a city full of crooked streets, 
Death is the market-place where all men meets : 
Were life a merchandize that wealth could buy, 
The rich would live, none but the poor would die. 

XXIII. IN ASTON CHURCH-YARD. 

BAKER, MrRd, d. Aug. 21, 1845 ag.58. Selina, dr. of Rd& Susanna, d. July 10, 
1845, ag. 18. William, their son, died Aug. 2G, 1815, aged 12 yrs. 

Banting, Ann, dr. of Jn & Ann, d. June 2G, 1846, ag. 34. Weep not &e.see p. 52. 

SPARROWHAWK, Mr. Wm, yeoman, died Jan. 27, 1842, aged 5G years. 

TOWNSEND, John, son of Joseph and Jane T., d. Feb. 11, 1816, ag. 36. 
Short was the warning that Death gave, When I was summon'd to the grave : 
So God was pleased to end my time, And cut me off just in my prime. 

• Alfred, youngest son of David Watts T. & Sarah his w„ of Coate, d. 

March 2, 1842, aged 16 years. 

Just in my youth and blooming years, I left my friends with weeping tears : 

God called in haste ; my soul did fly: I'm gone to rest eternally. 

XXIV. IN LEW CHURCH-YARD. 

BUTTS, Phcebe, dr. ox Robert and Phoebe B., d. Dec. 5, IS 15, aged 19 yrs. 
Grieve not fur me, my parents dear, I'm gone to rest, you need not fear. 
God call'd in haste; my soul did fly ; I'm gone to rest eternallv. 
In love we lived; in peace I died; You craved my life, but God denied. 
Here lies a child that 's dear to me; Christ call'd her hence his joys to see. 
I hope in Heaven I shall her find, Which heals the troubles of my mind. 

XXV. IN SHIFFORD CHURCH AND CHURCH-YARD. 

BAGGS, William, son of John and Elizabeth, d. Jan. 10, 1717, aged 20. 

Aaron, died Nov. 18, 1726. 

Bennet, Edward, died Nov. 11, 1729, aged 78. 

Blithe. Mrs. Susan, w. of Mr. Adam Blithe, vector of Ogborne St. George, Wilts., 
Her father, Mr. Andreas Sonibanke, w.ts a near relation to the Duke of Bruns- 
wick : her mother was of the ancient family of the Bradfords, of Ludlow, in 
Shropshire. This gentlewoman in her life-time made this following epitaph, 
to be set upon her tomb. Christ, birth, life, death, And doleful payne, 

In life and death, to me is gaine. 
She died Nov. 9, 1645, aged 75 years, and left issu3 only one daughter. 

Brown, Sophia, wife of Thomas B., of Brighthampton, d. Feb. 19, 18 13, ag. 45. 
A loving wife, a tender mother dear, A youthful friend lies buried her : 
She lived belov'd, in peace she died, Her life was desired, but God denied. 



62 HISTORY OF BAMFTON, 

also Sarah Ann, daughter of Thomas and Sophia B., d. Oct. 2, 1835, ag. 4 yrs. 
Thomas, son of Thos and Sophia, of Brighthampton, d. May 1, 1843, ag. 22. 



With patience to the last &c. [Inscrip. see page 52, Susanna Collins,] 
DARBY, Robert, late of Aston, d. Dec. 15, 1811, aged 72. 
■ Robert, late of Cote, Smith and Farrier, d. Sept. 17, 1772, ao-ed 73. also 

Mary, his wife, died March 30, 1801, aged 102 yrs. 11 ms. 
LAMBETH, Thomas, died May 15, 1803, aged 84. 
Long, Maria, w. of James, d. Oct. 18, 1819, aged 24. 

Farewell, vain world ! I bid adieu to thee, I value not what thou canst say of me j 

What faults thou seest in me, take care to shim, And look at home ; en juo-h there's 
PINNOCK, William, died Jan. 23, 1794, aged 50. [to be done. 

• Mary, w., of John P., and dr. of John and Ann Walter, of Stanton- 

Harcourt, d. May 15, 1800, ag. 27. 

Elizth, w. of Thos, late of Brighthampton, d. May 23, 1817,. a^. 83. 



While here on earth a true and faithful friend, 
Esteem 'd by those who knew her to the end, 
She never at the will of God repined, 
But still enjoy'd a calm and heavenly mind, 
Made God her refuge, in him put her trust, 
And to his care resign'd her earthly dust. 

Thomas, late of Brighthampton,' d. Sep. 30, 1818, ag. 53. 



Afflictions sore long time I bore, And racking pains did long endure. 
But did submit, when God thought fit, Beneath 1 lie from pains releas'cL 
Hannah, w. of Joseph, d. Nov. 12, 1821, aged 43. 



My latter days on earth was spent In pain severe, which God hath sent, 
But now in peace I'm laid to sleep, With Jesus Christ I hope to meet ; 
My sorrows past, also my pain, We only part to meet again. 

Hannah, w. of Wm P., late of Brighthampt., d. Dec. 22, 1322, ao-. 62. 



Weep not for me, my children dear, Nor spend your hours in grief; 
To Heaven address your fervent prayer, And there you'll find relief. 
Despise this world, and onward press To reach the happy shore 
Where troubles end and sorrows cease, And tears shall flow no more. 

Hannah Maria, dr. of Wm & Hannah, d. July 18, 1823, ag. 20 yrs. 



You readers all that passeth by, Pray think of death, for you must d 
Repent in time, make no delay, I in my prime was call'd away : 
My days are spent, my glass is run, And now, sweet Jesus, [ am come ! 
Charles, late of Brighthampton, d. Apr. 29, 1828, ag. 83 yrs 



Sincere to all, and upright in his ways, And all his actiens, justly merit praise 
Blessed be those who live beloved by most, And died lamented are the greatest 
Mercy, w. of Th. d.Ap.22,1833,ag.34. Ellen, their infant dr. [loss. 



also Esther, their daughter, d. Aug. 19, ]8c'8, aged 14. 

Martha, dr. of Thos and Mercy P., d. Aug. 12, 1835, ag. 15 yrs. 

Martha, wife of Thomas, d. Jan. 6, 1836, aged 71. 

A pale consumption gave the fatr.l blow, 
i he stroke was certain, but th' effect was slow. 
With wasting pain death found me sore opprest, 
Pitied my s ; ghs and kindly gave me rest. 

John, late of Standlake, d. suddenly Nov. 22, 1841, aged 69. Caroline, 

daughter of Jchn and Mary P., d„ Oct. 26, 1811. also Ksau, their infant son. 
Pryor, Wm, d. Ap5, 1723, ag.52. insc. as above, see T. Brown. 
WIGINGS, William, and Mary, his w., he d. March ..., 1727, ag.60. shed. Dec, 
18, 1729, aged 71. 

Wherefore this is yet once again, My husband, my request, 
To grant me pardon for my sin, That I in thee may rest. 
Withers, Margery, w. of Waller W. of Brighthampton, d. Feb. 3, 1728, ag. 6S. 
Wright, John, died July 25, 1706, aged 15 years. 

Mary, w. of Win, late of Chimney, d. May 10, 1810, ag. 60. William, 

their son, d. Aug. 20, 1786, ag. 21 . also Sarah, their dr., d. Sep. 26, 1706, ag. 10. 



APPENDIX, NO XXVI. 63 

XXVI. IN COTE CHAPEL AND BURIAL GROUND. 

BAKER, John, of Yelford, d. Ap. 12, 1802, ag. 75. Mary, & Sarah, his wives, 
Mary, d. July 29, 1760, ag. 75 : Sarah, d. April 20, 180 J, ag. 57. 
Thomas, d. March 17, 1808, ag. 25. 



COOMBS, Thos, d. Feh. 17, 1819, ag. 87. Elizth, his w., d. Jan. 17, 1828, ag. 97. 
Behold her ancestors, a pious race, Rang'd in fair order at her sight rejoice, 
And sing her welcome. 
Cure, John, d. July 18, 1837, ag. 7~. Barb., his w., d. Aug. 18, 1836, ag. 72. 
Behold the husband and the wife, Now joined together as in life : 
We hope their souls are now at rest, In Jesus Chiist for ever blest. 
DUNSCOMBE, Thomas, M. A., of Broughton, Hants, d. at Favingdon, Oct. 4, 
1811, ag. C3 : 26 years pastor of the church meeting in this place. 
Nature, be calm ! ye streaming tears, be dry ! 
The love, which prompts, should check the selfish sigh, 
Though fond affection long'd and hoped in vain, 
To his lov'd home to welcome him again, 
A nobler home is his, and bliss divine, 
In realms where love & truth unclouded shine, 
The Saviour's voice pronounc'd the blest decree, 
That where he is, there must his followers be. 
Durfort, Fredk, son of John and Eliza, of London, killed July 21, 1812, ag. 12. 
FRANCIS, Richard, of Southleigh, d. March 28, 1822, ag. 66: doacon of the 
church in this place 26 years. Mary, his w., d. Dec. 22, 1815, ag. 60. 

■ — — — Mary, 3d dr. of Wm F., of London, grd-dau. of Rich. & Mary R., d. 

Freeman, 3 children of Jos. and Mary F., d. infants- [Nov. 11,1841, ag. 82. 

GILES, Richard, of Gaunt house, d. June 3, 1836, ag. 49. 

PECKS, James, d. Aug. 10, 181 1, ag. 18. John, d. Sep. 28, 1809, ag. 13. Thomas, 

d. Dec. 23, 1811, ag. 11 ; all three, sons of Thos & Hannad P. 
Pinnock, John, sen., d. Ap. 6, 1803, ag. 5 1. John P. Jim., d. Feb. 6, 1803, ag. 27 : 

Violetta,late of Brighth., d.Oct.12,1839, ag. 40. [both of Chimney. 

Jane, w. of Jos., of Hardwicke, & dr. of Saml Williams, of Kingstone-Lisle, 

Berks, d. Dec. 13, 1839, ag. 42. 
SPIERS, John, late of Standlake, d. Feb. 25, 1812, ag. 08. 

TALBOT, Martha, & Mary, twin drs. of Wm T. & Abigail Wallis, d. Dec. 20, 1835, 
aged 2 years 9 months. 

Touched by Christ's hand in smiles they '11 rise, They '11 rise to sleep no more, 
But robed in light and crown 'd with joy, To endless joy will soar. 

Rd, d. Aug. 16, 1 740, ag. 69. Deborah, his w., d. Ap. 15, 1 758, ag.69. Richd, 

their son, d. June 23, 1733, ag. 16. Violetta, their dr., d. Mar. 14, 1737, ag. 16. 
WILLIAMS, James, of Southly, d. July 10, 1785, ag. 71. 

Samuel, d. Nov. 14, 1789, ag. 62. 

Abiah, w. of Ebenezer W., of Bamp., youngest dr of Mr. Collet, pastor 

of the church-meeting, here, d. Feb. 4, 1790, ag. 73. 

Benjn, of this neighbourhood, d. Jan. 27, 1792, ag. 74. Rebecca, his 



2nd w., who d. 3 months before, of the same age. 

Ebenezer, of Cote, d. Jan. 26, 1786, ag. 82. 

- Joseph, of Bampton,d. Dec. 14, 1802, ag. 56. 
Mr. Wm, of New Shifford, d. Jan. 23, 1830, ag. 72. 



Not in my innocence I trust ; I bow before thee in the dust : 

And through my Saviour's blood alone I look for mercy at thy throne. 

Williams, John, & Mary, his w., of Old Shifbrd, he d. Jan. 21, 1801, ag. 75. she 
died Nov. 9, 1837, aged 92. 

Ruth, dr. of Wm and Jane, of Notgrove, Gloucestershire, and w., of Pe- 
ter W., of Standlake, d. Oct. 31, L>11, ag. 84. also 4 children, Ebenezer, ag. 5, 
and three infants. 

Boaz, s. of Peter, and Ruth, of Old Sniff., d. May 7, 1832, ag. 32. 

Jas, & Ann, his w., she d. Jan. 16, 1811, ag. 29. he d. Dec. 9, 1S39, ag, 73. 



04 



HTSTORY OF BAMPTOX, 



NAMES OF SUBSCRIBERS, 



Rev. Dacres Adams, 4 copies 
Mr Wm Andrews 

— John Angell 

— ArkiU 

E. Atkins Esq., Ringsfcon-Lyle 
■ — Charles Baker [2 copies 

— John Bake]-, Aston 

— John Banting 
Miss Caroline Banting 
Rev. R. Barnes, 4 copies 
Mr E. Bartlett, Aston 
Mr John Bateman 

■ — J. M. Bateman, 2 copies 

— T. H. Bateman 

— Beechey, 2 copies 

Edward Bradshaw, Lew, 2 copies 

R. Bullen Esq., South wark 

B, H. Bullen Esq. 

Mr C. Bullock 

Mr T. Bye, Brizenorlon 

Aliss Carl von, 20 Lemon st., Truro 

Miss M.Winstanley Carlvon, Truro 

Mr Chamberlaine 

Wm Chapman esq., Richmond, 
Surrey, 4 copies 

Rev. \Tm Church, Geddinstfon vi- 
carage,Kettering, Northampton . 

Miss Church, 32 Milsom street, 
Batli, 2 copies 

E. Boyle Church Esq., 38 South- 
ampton Buildgs, Chancery Lane 

Mr James Clack 

Mrs Clarke, Clanfleld 

Mr Wm Clinch 

J. W. Clinch esq., Witney 

Mr H. Corke 

W. K. Cowlev esq., 2 copies 

Rev. II. O. Coxe, C, C. C. Oxford 



Mr. Robert Dennis 
T. Denton esq., Lew, 20 copies 
Geo. Druce, esq., En sham 
Jos. Druce, esq., Ensham 
Sam. Druce, junior, esq., Ensham 
Mr J. Dutton 

Rev. E. Edison, Stock, Essex 
Mrs Edmonds, Eastleach 
Mrs Edwards, Tiddington 
Mrs J. Edwards, Gt. Haseby 
The Miss Edwards's, Tiddington 
Mr T. Eldridge 
The Bishop of Exeter 
The Dean of Exeter 
Mr Era mp to ii 

Mrs Freeman, Stoke Talmage 
Mrs Frowd, 32 Milsom Street, 
Bath, 2 copies. 
Mr J. F. Gardner, 2 copies 

— G erring 

C. Giles hsq. Taunton 
Mrs C. Gillett, Lew 
Mr Charles Gillett, Haddon 
Mr. John Gillett, Brizenorton 
Rev. T. Wm Goodlake, Bradwell 
E. W. Hippisley Esq., Lambourn 
Place, 2 copies 
Miss Hollo ways 
Mr S. Hudson 

Mr T. Hutchins, Brighthampton 
Rev. C. L. Kekby, Stoke tal- 
Mrs King, Oxf. [mage, 20 copies 
B. Leak Esq., 2 copies 
T. Leforestier Esq. 
Mr Lew T is 
Mr C. Long, Cote 

— Z. Long, Aston 

L Lowe Esq. Temple 



APPENDIX 



65 



R. Lowe Esq. Temple 
Rev. J. Lupton, Black Bourton 
C. E. Macray Esq., Mag. C. Oxf. 
Eev. W. Manley, Chalton, Hants 
Mr Merchant 

Mrs Miles, Chipping Campden, 
Mrs Miller [Gloucestershire 

Eev. Joseph Moore, Buckland 
M. Messiier esq. 

Eev. A. Neate, Alvescot 2 copies 
Mrs Neate, Leamington 
E. B. Newhouse esq. 
Eev. W. J. Newman, Uffculm, 
[Devonshire, 4 copies 
Mrs Norton, Tiddington 
Mrs Oakey 

Eev. E. G. H. Orchard 
The Bishop of Oxford 
Mrs Penrose, Truro 
Mrs J. Pinnock, Standlake 
Mrs J. Pinnock, Brighthampton 
Miss E. Pinnock, Brighthampton 
Mr J. Pinnock, Junior, Bright- 
— v Plaster [hampton 

— T. Plaster 

Eev. H. M. Roberts, Magdalen 
Coll., Oxford, 4 copies 
J. J. Roberts esq., Richmond 
Mr L. Robins 
Mrs Rogers, Old Shifford 
R. Roope Esq., 3 Taufleld Court, 
J. Rose Esq. [Temple, 2 copies 
Mr. K T. Rose 
Lucy Sales 

Rev. J. H. Samler, Swallow-cliff 
Mrs Shingieton 
Mr Smith 
Mr Smith, Lew 
R. Southby Esq. 
Mrs Sparrowhawk 
Miss Stackhouse, 2 copies 
Rev. William Stackhouse, Tre- 
hane, Cornwall 



Mr Jn Stackhouse, Jun., Camber- 
Miss Steede, 2 copies [well grove 
Joseph Steede Esq. Dock Head 
Mr. Stephens [Distillery 

Mr Taylor, 6 copies 
Mrs Taylor, Litchbro' Rectory, 
Weedon, Northamptonshire 
Rev. H. S. Templer 
Rev J. Thorold, Kencot 
Sir Robert Throckmorton, Buck- 
Mr T. Townsend [land park 
Mrs D. Townsend Jun., Cote 
Mr R. Townsend, Cote House 
• — • W. Townsend, Aston 
Miss Trafford 

Rev. W. J. Walker, Southrop 
Mr Wm. Walker, Brizenorton 
Mr James Ward 
Mr J. Watkins 
Mrs Watkins, Oxford 
Frederick Whitakee Esq., 20 
E. E. Whitaker Esq. [copies 

Miss Whitaker, 2 copies 
G. E. Whitaker Esq/ Wad. Coll. 
Mr Williams, Old Shifford [Oxf. 
Mr R. Williams, Old Shifford 
Rev. Thomas Williams, Northop, 
Flintshire 
Thomas Williams Esq., Cowley 
Grove, Uxbridge 
B. Williams Esq., Cowley Grove, 
Uxbridge 
Joshua Williams Esq., barr. at 
law, 3 New square, Line. Inn 
Mr W. Williams 
Mrs Winkworth 

Mrs Winstanley 2 copies 

Mrs Winstanley, 22 Harewood 
Square, London, 2 copies 
Mr Wright, Lew, 2 copies 
Mr John Young 



w~- 



tOSTSCRlPT. 

If this book should fall into the hands of a critic,, T beg to caution 
him against exercising the privileges of his craft on a work which was 
never meant for Lis inspection and therefore cannot justly be the vic- 
tim of his censure. It has been compi 1 A for the inhabitants of a small 
country-town, who invited the author to write it, for their amusement, 
and partly, also, out of regard for the place in which they live. If there- 
fore, strangers, who cannot sympathize with the writer, his subject, or 
his readers, shall venture to pull it in pieces, such critics had better never 
pass through the town of Bampton, for all its inhabitants will most 
assuredly rise in his defence. 

JOHN ALLEN GlLES, Curate of Bampton, First Portion, 

April 3, 1S48. 



CONTENTS. 



§ page 

1. Introduction xi 

2. Description of Bampton in its present state xvi 

3. Of the climate and soil of Bampton Parish xxi 

4. Of the town of Bampton ■. xxii 

5. Of the parish-church of Bampton xxiv 

C. Of the vicars and church-estahlishment 

of Bampton xxxii 

7. Order and succession of the vicars of 

Bampton xxxiv 

8. Paiish-registere, no longer in use, kept 

in the small iron chest xliii 

9. Of the vestry-books xlix 

10. Deeds in the great iron chest lxi 

11. Of the police and civil government 

of Bampton ibid. 

12. The town -hall lxii 

13. Of the fair and public amusements lxiii 

14. The haunted house, and death -warning 

of the Wood family lxv 

15. Bampton Castle lxx 

[6. Legend of the lady-well lxxii 

17. Ghost of Cow-leas corner lxxiv 

18. Of the trade and occupation of the 

inhabitants lxxviii 

19. Aston lxxix 

20. Cote lxxxi 

21. Cotechapel lxxxi 

22. Cote House , Ixxxii 

23. Shifford lxxxi i 

24. Chimney Ixxxiv 

25. Brighthampton Ixxxv 

26. Lew Ixxxv 

27. Of the public charities ef Bampton Ixxxv 

28. Manors of Bampton, Bampton deanery, 

Aston, and Shifford ci 

29. Past history of Bampton, chronologically 

arranged ex 

APPENDIX. 
I. King Alfred's parliament at Shifford, 

A. D. 890 p. 3 



page 



NAMES OF SUBSCRIBERS ... p. 64 



II. Charter of Leofric to the church of Exeter 

A. D. 1046... 4 

III. Survey of Bampton, A. D. 1086 6 

IV. Charter of king Henry III, dated March 
10, 1249, granting the manor of Bampton to 

William de Valence...;.. 6 

V. Inquisition, copy of the hundred-roll of 

Bampton and Aston, 3d Edward. [A. D. 

1274-5] 7 

VI. Pleas of assize held at Oxford in the 13th 

year of Edward I, [A. D. 1285. ],...- ...9 

VII. Inquisition of king Edward II, dated 

Nov. 28and Dec. 1313 12 

VIII. Inquisition of king Edward II, dated 

Dec. 9 and 20, A.D. 1327 13 

IX. Inquisition of K. Edward III, Jan. 26, 

A. D. 1329 15 

X. Grant of free-warren to Richard Talbot, 

14 Edw III, A. D. 1341. Ap. 10 17 

XI. Inquisition of 30th of Edw III. A.D. 

1357 IS 

XII. Inquisiton of Edw. Ill, A. D. 1362 19 

XIII. Inquisition of Edw III, A.D. 1367 21 

XIV. Extract from Henry VIII's grant &c k 

A. D. 1543 22 

XV. Catalogue of Natural & artificial 

curiosities in Oxfordshire 23 

XVI. Inquisition concerning Bampton 

Grammar-school A. D. 1637.. 

XVII. Sale of moiety of Bampton-deanery 

manor, A. D. 1650 

XVIII. Appointment of first master to 

grammar-school A. D. 1653... 35 

XIX. Inquisitions taken at Bampton , 

A. D. 1680 26 

XX. Hudson's pamphlet on the Bampton 

charities, reprinted 41 

XXI. Orders and statutes forlthe Grammar- 

school 1731-2 4t 

XXII. Inscriptions from Bampton church and 

church-yard 48 

POSTSCRIPT 66 



28 



SO 



ILLUSTRATIONS. 



1. Bampton-Deanery manor-house 

2 and 3. Town-hall, and High Street 

4 and 5. Vicarage, and West view of Bampton church 

6 and 7. Ruins of castle, and deanery 

8 and 9. Seal found at Aston, and Aston Cross 

10 & 11. Lew church, and House at Lew belonging to T. Denton, esq 

12 Bampton Grammar-School 

13 & 14. Cote House, and Shifford church 



.to face title. 

. p. xvi. 

. xxxii. 

. lxxii. 

. lxxix. 

Ixxxv. 

lxxxix. 

, cviii. 



FINIS 



>3 







F 633 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



019 828 942 5 




Hmtnm 



1 

t 

in 



mm 




